For more than four decades, the hardware and homebuilding industry has demonstrated what can happen when an entire business community comes together around a shared purpose.
In 2027, that tradition continues with three leaders helping shape its next chapter.
Maria Ford of Stanley Black & Decker, Michelle Newland of Oatey Co. and Dennis Trine of Champion Power Equipment have been named City of Hope's 2027 Spirit of Life® honorees. Together, they will lead the National Hardware & Homebuilding Industry's (HHI) yearlong fundraising campaign, bringing manufacturers, retailers, distributors and industry partners together to help end cancer by building what comes next. While their careers have followed different paths, all three share a belief in the power of people, relationships and collective action to make a lasting difference.
More than four decades of an industry giving back
Founded in 1983 by industry executives inspired by City of Hope's mission, HHI has raised more than $285 million to support research and care for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.
That history represents more than a fundraising total. It reflects generations of industry leaders, companies and employees choosing to put their relationships, resources and collective reach behind a cause that touches families in every community.
The Spirit of Life Award, City of Hope's most prestigious philanthropic honor, recognizes visionary leaders whose achievements, generosity and commitment to improving lives embody the organization's mission. It celebrates not only what these individuals have accomplished, but also the future they're helping make possible.
"For more than four decades, the hardware and homebuilding industry has demonstrated what can happen when business leaders unite around a purpose greater than themselves," said Mary Beth Pate, senior vice president, relational philanthropy at City of Hope. "Maria, Michelle and Dennis embody the leadership, generosity and collaborative spirit that have made this partnership so impactful."
Three leaders, one shared purpose
Maria Ford, president of U.S. commercial and industrial sales for DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, has built her career around leadership, innovation and industry relationships. Since joining the company in 1998, she has held positions across sales, product management, marketing and commercial strategy. Today, she leads a multibillion-dollar business while advocating for workforce development and expanded opportunities for women in construction and manufacturing.
For Ford, the qualities that help an industry succeed — skilled people, strong partnerships and a commitment to a common goal — can also help advance City of Hope's mission.
Michelle Newland, executive vice president and chief retail and international officer for Oatey Co., brings more than three decades of industry experience and a longstanding connection to City of Hope. She joined the HHI Executive Council in 2016 and has served as its chair since 2022, helping strengthen industry engagement and philanthropic support. Her involvement has given her a firsthand view of what companies and individuals can accomplish when they come together around a meaningful cause. As a 2027 honoree, she hopes to inspire even broader participation.
Dennis Trine, founder of Champion Power Equipment, brings nearly five decades of hardware industry experience. Since founding Champion in 2003, he has built a business grounded in quality, customer service and strong relationships with retail partners. His commitment to service also extends beyond business through involvement with humanitarian and community organizations.
For Trine, supporting City of Hope reflects a belief that leadership carries a responsibility to make a positive difference beyond the workplace.
Together, Ford, Newland and Trine represent the collaborative spirit that has sustained the industry's partnership with City of Hope for more than 40 years.
A new year of opportunity begins in Las Vegas
The 2027 industry campaign will formally launch on February 1, 2027, at the 44th Annual Spirit of Life Gala & Golf Classic in Las Vegas.
The event will feature golf experiences at Shadow Creek Golf Course or Red Rock Country Club, followed by an evening gala at Resorts World Las Vegas celebrating the three honorees.
The event's return to Las Vegas also coincides with the NAHB International Builders' Show, taking place February 2–4, bringing industry leaders to the city for a week of connection, collaboration and shared purpose.
But the impact of the campaign will extend far beyond one event.
Throughout the year, companies and individuals across the hardware and homebuilding industry will have opportunities to participate through fundraising, sponsorships, events and engagement with employees, customers and business partners.
Every contribution helps support City of Hope's mission to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Through its integrated approach to research and clinical care, City of Hope works to bring scientific discoveries to patients and advance more effective treatments.
After more than four decades of partnership, the industry has demonstrated the difference collective action can make. The year ahead offers another opportunity to build on that legacy, welcome new participants and help create a future with more hope for patients and families.
Join the industry in making a difference. Learn more about the 2027 campaign, sponsorship opportunities and the Spirit of Life Gala & Golf Classic at cityofhope.org/hhispol.