Beaux Arts Ball Raises $1.9 Million to Benefit National Jewish Health

Snowstorm Fails to Deter Generous Donors

The 2015 Beaux Arts Ball, presented by the Morgridge Family Foundation, raised more than $1.9 million to support National Jewish Health, the nation’s leading respiratory hospital,. Despite a blanket of snow that covered the city, 1,050 guests partied with Glinda, Elphaba and the Wizard at “A Wickedly Beaux Arts Ball” at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center.

“The Beaux Arts Ball is the institution’s largest fundraising event in Denver,” said Michael Salem, MD, National Jewish Health president and CEO. “The outstanding support of our Grand Marshals, leadership and donors ensures that we can continue to provide exceptional patient care and perform cutting-edge research.”

Dr. Salem and National Jewish Health Board Chair Rich Schierburg honored the 2015 Grand Marshals, Lindsey and Stanton Dodge, Dianne Eddolls and Glenn Jones, Leslie and Noel Ginsburg, and Elaine and Kevin Kauffman.

The Beaux Arts Ball featured spectacular entertainment, which kicked off with Emerald City Drummers and featured dance and musical performances from “Wicked.” Music by Vali Entertainment brought the crowd to the dance floor. 

Event leadership included co-chairs Kathy and Ted Brown, Brad Busse, Faye and Steve Demby, DiAhndra Diamond and Alex Topelson, Robin and Cole Finegan, Diane and Doug Robinson, and Shelly and Rick Sapkin. In addition to Presenting Sponsor the Morgridge Family Foundation, dozens of individuals and institutions also supported the Beaux Arts Ball, including Gold Sponsors the Anschutz Foundation, Anne & Rich Baer, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Clear The Air Foundation, DIRECTV, Lindsey & Stanton Dodge, Jones International, Ltd., K.P. Kauffman Company, Inc., MDC Foundation and Noble Energy, Inc. Also in attendance were Senator Michael Bennet and Congressman Mike Coffman.

A Fund-a-Need direct appeal raised $500,000 to support pediatric eczema and allergy care and research programs at National Jewish Health. Patients and their families travel from across the country for the institution’s expertise in treating severe eczema and allergies. Dr. Salem explained to guests that children with severe eczema struggle with the painful skin condition for years before finding answers that change their lives at National Jewish Health.

“If we hadn’t come to National Jewish Health, we would be in a very different situation,” said Liz Burke of Yonkers, New York, whose son, Jordan, was treated in the National Jewish Health Pediatric Day Program. “We are forever grateful to National Jewish Health – they gave Jordan his childhood back and changed our lives.”

A traditional live auction, also held during the event, raised $93,000. The high bidder for each luxury package will enjoy experiences of a lifetime, including attending Elton John’s 2016 Oscar Viewing Party, vacationing at a luxurious 16th century Tuscan estate, experiencing the USA Pro Challenge cycling race up close and personal, and driving exotic sports cars at the High Plains Raceway.