Photo credit: Ryan Emberley
Over 350 guests came together to support Sinai Health System’s Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (LTRI) on March 28. Dream with Scientists, presented by PearTree Financial, united Toronto’s business, philanthropic and scientific communities for an evening of awe, wonder and magic. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors, Dream with Scientists raised critical funds for the LTRI.
The evening began with a cocktail reception, hosted by PwC, which invited guests to mingle prior to the opening remarks. As guests were seated for dinner, many tables hosted a designated scientist to learn more about the research conducted at LTRI. The evening opened with opera from 15-year-old singing sensation Laura Bretan and a cirque performance from A2D2.
Louis de Melo, CEO of Sinai Health Foundation, welcomed guests to the event and introduced the event co-chairs, Judy Tanenbaum and Stacey Cynamon, who spoke about the importance of supporting research and leaving a legacy that can impact future generations. They also took the opportunity to thank all of the sponsors for their generosity.
The event featured a video presentation of the innovative work of four LTRI scientists - Dr. Rayjean Hung, Dr. Kerry Kuluski, Dr. Bruce Perkins and Dr. Frank Sicheri, along with Dr. Jim Woodgett, Director of the LTRI. The video highlighted the theme of magic and science and ended with all five featured scientists appearing on stage to a round of applause. A second video featured many of the event donors and sponsors, including presenting sponsor PearTree Financial and reception sponsor PwC, and emphasized the importance of supporting research.
Dream with Scientists ended on a high note with an exclusive performance from Illusionist Darcy Oake, who dazzled guests by making doves appear out of thin air and performed several logic-defying illusions.
“I want to sincerely thank guests, sponsors and donors who have helped make Dream with Scientists such a success and a true celebration of scientific discovery,” said Louis de Melo. “The passion and generosity of our community is essential to helping propel the critical work at the LTRI. We are incredibly grateful to our vibrant community of donors and supporters who are fueling research and innovation that ultimately saves patients’ lives.”
Check out some of the great photos from the evening!