Jan. 4, 2017

Inaugural Bon Santé Ball Raises Funds for Academic Medicine

Top, left: Ashleigh Leite, Dr. Bennet Omalu, Rebecca Fine and Peter Fine. Left, bottom: After-dinner dancing. Middle: Kris Pickel. Right: Dinner tables

The inaugural Banner Bon Santé Ball was held Dec. 10 at The Phoenician. Phoenix Children’s Chorus greeted guests with carols, and Urban Electra opened the program with a performance of “Carol of the Bells.”

With two concurrent receptions, the nearly 500 guests mingled during a President’s VIP Reception that featured a violinist, beverages and appetizers, while others enjoyed a jazzy set by members of Treja Vu.

CBS-5 anchor Kris Pickel hosted the program, welcoming guest speaker Dr. Bennet Omalu, the real-life physician portrayed by actor Will Smith in the movie “Concussion.” Omalu inspired guests with his life story, including his humble beginnings in Nigeria and leading the discovery and publication of his findings of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in American football players.

Through his special brand of magic, illusionist Reza revealed Banner Health’s Kathy Bollinger, executive vice president for Banner – University Medicine Division. Bollinger began a new tradition by toasting to good health with a robust “bon santé!”

The evening concluded with a performance by Treja Vu, dancing and creative after-party snacks (think: fancy tater tots and frosted sugar cookies). Sponsors for the evening included The CORE Institute and Valley Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants.

Funds raised from Bon Santé benefit Banner – University Medicine in Phoenix and Tucson.

PHOTOS COURTESY BANNER HEALTH FOUNDATION