Advancing Breast Cancer Research: Cassie Rosenthal and Jill Martin Honored for Their Dedication to Philanthropy and Innovation
Contact:
Bridget Livengood
626-232-2498
[email protected]
LOS ANGELES — City of Hope®, one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States and ranked among the nation’s top 5 cancer centers by U.S. News & World Report, is proud to announce Cassie Rosenthal, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Rosenthal & Rosenthal, and Jill Martin, Emmy Award-winning television personality and entrepreneur, as the recipients of the 2025 Spirit of Life® Award. The award will be presented at the Spirit of Life Luncheon on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at The Plaza in New York City.
The Spirit of Life Award is City of Hope’s most prestigious philanthropic honor, presented annually to visionary leaders who are shaping the future through their contributions to society, medicine and human welfare. This award celebrates individuals who not only embody the ideals of service, compassion and dedication but also drive innovation and progress that pave the way for a healthier, more hopeful future.
“I am honored to be recognized with The Spirit of Life Award and to stand alongside City of Hope in its mission to improve the lives of those affected by cancer,” said Rosenthal. “Supporting breast cancer research is a cause deeply important to me, and I am committed to advancing progress in the fight against this disease.”
“I am truly grateful to receive this honor from City of Hope,” said Martin. “My own journey with breast cancer has shown me the power of research, treatment and compassionate care. I hope this recognition helps to further awareness for vital breakthroughs in cancer treatment.”
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with 1 in 8 women in the U.S. expected to face a diagnosis in their lifetime. This year’s Spirit of Life honorees are dedicated to driving progress in research and treatment, offering hope to millions affected by this disease.
The Spirit of Life Luncheon will feature a day of celebration, inspiration and philanthropy, bringing together community leaders and supporters of City of Hope. In-event philanthropic support will directly benefit breast cancer research, furthering City of Hope's commitment to advancing innovative treatments and compassionate care for those impacted by the disease.
Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
• Time: 11 a.m.
• Location: The Plaza
• Address: New York City, NY
The East End Chapter/Jeanne Kaye League has been a driving force in philanthropy for City of Hope, bringing together dedicated individuals and community leaders in New York City and surrounding areas to advance groundbreaking cancer research and treatment. Since its founding in 1965, the chapter has played a pivotal role in funding innovative therapies and supporting patients and families affected by cancer. Through its signature event and committed network, the East End Chapter has raised millions of dollars to date, making a lasting impact on City of Hope’s mission to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes.
“The East End Chapter is a community driven by passion and purpose,” said Lisa Fuld, legacy volunteer leader of the East End Chapter. “For years, we have come together to support City of Hope’s lifesaving work, and this year’s Spirit of Life Luncheon is especially meaningful as we continue our commitment to funding breast cancer research. I am inspired every day by our members’ dedication to making a real impact.”
For more information about the Spirit of Life Luncheon or to purchase tickets, please visit EECSPOL.givesmart.com or contact [email protected].
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About City of Hope
City of Hope’s mission is to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S., and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center that is ranked top 5 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report at its core, City of Hope’s uniquely integrated model spans cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and a broad philanthropy program that powers its work. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix areas. City of Hope’s affiliated group of organizations includes Translational Genomics Research Institute and AccessHopeTM. For more information about City of Hope, follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Cassie Rosenthal
Cassie Rosenthal is a third-generation stakeholder and the chief marketing officer of her family’s commercial finance firm, Rosenthal & Rosenthal—the largest privately held lending company in the nation. Before this, she co-owned and directed the New York City and Berlin outposts of Goff + Rosenthal art gallery. Her thought leadership has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, WWD, Footwear News, BBC Radio, and CNBC. Rosenthal is on the board of the New York Institute of Credit (NYIC) and was the inaugural recipient of the NYIC’s Women’s Division Renaissance Award. She is also on the board of Powerhouse Arts, a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression, and Gold Collective, an invitation-only network of entrepreneurs who believe in the power of community. A native New Yorker, Rosenthal received her BA from Colgate University and holds a master’s degree in art history from Sotheby's Institute of Art in London. She and her husband Paul Agosta are avid travelers and passionate foodies and philanthropists.
About Jill Martin
Jill Martin is an entrepreneur, Emmy Award-winning television personality, and talent on NBC’s TODAY SHOW. She has maintained a successful lifestyle brand on QVC for over a decade, focusing on offering consumers accessible elegance. Following her breast cancer diagnosis, Martin has drawn from her personal journey to launch a new line of apparel, www.jillmartin.com that combines style with comfort, all while promoting the importance of health testing and advocating for women's health issues.
In addition to her business and television work, Martin serves on the advisory board of the Garden of Dreams Foundation, a charity connected with the Madison Square Garden family. This foundation aims to positively impact the lives of children facing obstacles. Martin has earned twelve Emmys for her reporting, particularly with the New York Knicks. She holds a degree in communications from the University of Michigan. Her multifaceted career reflects her commitment to both entrepreneurship and philanthropy, blending her personal and professional experiences to help others.