The Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer presented The Waxman Luncheon as one of the season’s defining philanthropic afternoons — an elegant gathering dedicated to advancing cancer research while celebrating the donors, supporters, and cultural figures who sustain the institute’s mission across New York society.
The Waxmans inspire genuine admiration: the kindest, most energetic team, all in service of a prime cause. And the caliber of the room was unmistakable — seeing dear friend Arlene Lazare, a friendship spanning two decades from Luigi and Liza through New York, LA, and Thanksgiving dinners, made clear this was an A-list affair. PR powerhouse Norah Lawlor pointed out the city’s most philanthropic, kind, and caring leaders — truly the charity luncheon of the year.
Honoring the supporters
The luncheon honored philanthropists Mary Slattery and Alexandra Adame, recognizing both women for their commitment to funding cancer research and their sustained support of the institute’s scientific and philanthropic work.
Luncheon chairs Marion N. Waxman, Susan Pernick, and Dina Koutroumanis led the afternoon, with co-chairs Erica Linden-Fineberg, Nancy Litman, and Helen Vaysman, and a committee including Sandy Ackerman, Jessica DiPalma, Orital Karelic, Norah Lawlor, Tali Mehdyzadeh, Lorri Scott, and Randi Schatz.
Runway meets research
A live fashion presentation of the Safiyaa Spring/Summer 2026 collection brought international luxury into the afternoon, pairing contemporary design with charitable purpose. The program’s visual identity — soft florals in blush pink, cream, lavender, burgundy, and deep plum — matched the refined, feminine elegance of the occasion.
Riverpark curated the culinary experience: burrata with asparagus, frisée, charred snap peas, fava beans, parmesan crisp, and green goddess dressing to start; mushroom-and-herb stuffed chicken breast with truffle mashed potatoes, spinach, peas, oyster mushrooms, and chicken jus for the entrée; and a choice of strawberry rhubarb mille feuille or espresso chocolate tart to finish.
Fundraising ran through a raffle — $125 a ticket, three for $350 — and a silent auction closing at 2:30 p.m., with support from donors including Jimmy Choo, Judith Leiber, Ralph Lauren, Alice + Olivia, Movado, the Metropolitan Opera, and jewelry sponsor Brilliant Stars. Special thanks extended to the Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, the Mazursky Family Foundation, and the Waxman family circle itself. Fashion, fine dining, and fierce commitment to the science of curing cancer — New York charity at its very best.
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Originally published on Times Square Chronicles.
