The 11th Annual Waxman Luncheon, benefiting the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF), was held at Riverpark restaurant in New York City, drawing over 150 guests in support of cancer research. This year’s event honored philanthropist Susan Pernick and featured an exclusive Spring/Summer 2025 fashion presentation by the esteemed couture brand Akris.
Models wearing Akris attends The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
Susan Pernick, the luncheon’s honoree, was recognized for her unwavering dedication to advancing cancer research and her broader philanthropic contributions across education, women’s health, the arts, and Jewish cultural causes. With a strong background in the arts, Susan serves as the American President of Shenkar College of Engineering, Art, and Design in Ramat Gan, Israel, where she also holds a position on the Board of Directors.
Marion Waxman and Dr. Samuel Waxman attend The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
As in previous years, the luncheon’s signature live and silent auctions provided guests with the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research while bidding on exclusive items. This year’s highlights included a hooded blazer from Eleventy Milano, a luxurious Maximilian cashmere cape with fox fur trim, designer handbags from Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Akris, Tod’s, and Carlos Falchi, and a coveted trip to Paris for Fashion Week. The grand raffle prize, a Paul Morelli WILD CHILD Lariat necklace in 18k yellow gold set with multicolored stones and valued at $12,000, added an extra touch of excitement to the event.
The luncheon was made possible through the generous support of major sponsors including Aneka, Monarch Knitting Machinery, Palm Bay International, and UNSAID. Gift bag donors included Coty, Covergirl, The Jewelry Group, Alexander by Design, The Laundress, Neuhaus Chocolates, Ralph Lauren, and Rimmel. Floral arrangements were graciously donated by EROS Flowers NYC.
Kobi Halperin, Susan Pernick, Marion Waxman, Dr. Samuel Waxman and Jani Aronow Gerard attend The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
Models wearing Akris attends The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
Susan Gutfreund attends the Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick attends The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
Fern Mallis attends The Waxman Luncheon Honoring Philanthropist Susan Pernick at Riverpark (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)
Distinguished guests in attendance included Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, honoree Susan Pernick, Ryan Schoenfeld (The Mark Foundation), Fern Mallis, Susan Gutfreund, Kobi Halperin, Pamela Morgan, Lisa Herbert-Winter, and Jean Shafiroff.
The event was chaired by Mrs. Marion Waxman, Jani Gerard, and Dina Koutramanis, with Erica Linden-Fineberg, Nancy Litman, and Helen Vaysman serving as Co-Chairs. Committee members included Sarah Irby, Orital Karelic, Allison Ross, Lorri Scott, and Bettina Waxman.
About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating cancer through innovative, collaborative research. Since 1976, the Foundation has awarded over $120 million to support the work of more than 200 leading scientists worldwide. Focused on understanding and correcting the abnormal gene functions that drive cancer and aging, SWCRF is pioneering minimally toxic therapies aimed at improving patient outcomes and quality of life.