Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Reach For A Star Gala

 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Reach For A Star Gala

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Gateway Chapter hosted The Reach for a Star Gala, its most elegant and anticipated event of the year, Friday, November 8, 2013, at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The 22nd annual black tie affair, presented by Express Scripts, celebrated the heroes in our community who are working to provide a hopeful future for those living with cystic fibrosis. It also recognized the many individuals and their families that struggle daily with the disease.

The evening, co-chaired by Virginia McDowell and Gary Wimberly, attracted 332 guests, included a cocktail reception, seated gourmet dinner, oral and silent auctions, live entertainment and dancing, and most important, raised over $320,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation..Diane Katzman received the Alan A. and Edith L. Wolff Inspiration Award, which is given annually to St. Louis’ most active, inspiring community leaders or organizations who have made a remarkable difference through philanthropic involvement.

Ms. Katzman, president of Diane Katzman Designs, created a jewelry line that has sold at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, graced the runways of countless collections, and been featured in the pages of “InStyle”, “Elle”, and “Modern Bride”. More recently, the design company has evolved from a wholesale retailer into a promotional products manufacturer. Its client list comprises VISA, Bank of America, and the United States Olympic team.

A true philanthropist, Ms. Katzman does not measure her success by her company’s revenue but rather by the amount of money she can generate for the St. Louis community and its charities. In addition to working with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, she also has participated in breast cancer awareness campaigns, heart health projects, school art programs, and other endeavors. Using her creativity and her personal and professional connections, Ms. Katzman has produced millions of dollars for local charities.

For more information about the Reach For A Star Gala or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, please contact Jill Schroeder at (314) 733-1241 or visit the website, http://www.cff.org/Chapters/gateway.