The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to curing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, hosted its 58th Annual Gala, Broadway’s Got Guts!, on Monday, November 17, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City. The inspiring evening celebrated the resilience of those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which affects 1 in 100 Americans and fueled groundbreaking research aimed at discovering better treatments and, ultimately, cures. By night’s end, the Foundation raised an impressive $1.2 million to support its mission.
Jim Moye
Broadway’s Got Guts! brought together passionate supporters for a memorable night of fundraising, fine dining, and world-class Broadway entertainment. Hosted by James Moye—currently starring in Bull Durham: The Musical – the evening opened with a tasting showcase from top NYC restaurants including Lure Fishbar, Soledad, and Gotham Burger Social Club, followed by a full dinner service. The star-studded lineup of performers featured Justin Sargent (Hamilton), Catherine Brunell and Derek Klena (Moulin Rouge!), Analise Scarpaci (Mrs. Doubtfire), and special performances by The Urchins from the Off-Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors.
The Urchins
Founded in 1967, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation has played a role in every major research and treatment breakthrough in IBD, investing more than half a billion dollars in research and supporting more than 2,500 projects to date.
This year’s gala honored four exceptional leaders in the IBD community. Lawrence Benenson, named Champion of the Year, has lived with ulcerative colitis since childhood and established the Benenson-Korelitz IBD Fellowship in honor of his pioneering physician, Dr. Burt Korelitz. Peter Yawitz, recipient of the Lifetime Advocate Award, was recognized for decades of advising, fundraising, and fostering connection for patients inspired by his own journey with Crohn’s disease. Dr. Bo Shen received the Rosenthal Humanitarian Award for his globally renowned research and transformative innovations in patient care. The Community Impact Leader Award was presented to Sharief Saleh, celebrated for his resilience, academic excellence, and advocacy that has advanced GI health while inspiring countless others.
Broadway’s Got Guts! was proudly supported by its sponsors: Pfizer, The Durst Organization, Savvy Navigator, Sceneworks Studios, Sidley Austin LLP, Takeda, AbbVie, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, GNY Insurance Companies, NewYork-Presbyterian, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, GIE Medical, Johnson & Johnson, and Thrivewell Infusion.