Fashion and philanthropy came together to support crucial scientific research, as Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and the Penny’s Flight Foundation recently partnered with women’s designer clothing brand Veronica Beard for an exclusive in-person shopping event at the brand’s luxury storefront in Manhasset, NY. The event featured a sit-down discussion between CSHL’s Sarah Kitt and Penny’s Flight co-founders Kate and Chad Doerge, who spoke about the power of private funding, community engagement, and raising awareness for fundamental biology research.
Throughout April, a portion of the proceeds from in-store shopping events at Veronica Beard locations across the U.S., London, and Toronto will support a Penny’s Flight-funded research initiative at CSHL focused on the genetic disorder NF1 and brain cancer glioblastoma. This work is led by CSHL scientists Linda Van Aelst, Michael Lukey, and Jeremy Borniger.
“Thanks to your generosity, we have raised millions of dollars for NF research while inspiring countless individuals to join our fight,” said Penny’s Flight co-founders Kate and Chad Doerge. “Together, we are funding innovative studies at leading institutions like CSHL and the Children’s Tumor Foundation—research that holds promise for transformative breakthroughs.”
Penny’s Flight’s mission to advance research on NF1 and related disorders is inspired by the life and spirit of Penelope “Penny” Doerge, who passed away in November 2022. With a deep commitment to accelerating medical progress, the Foundation is also sponsoring an NF1-dedicated meeting at CSHL’s Banbury Center, a leading think tank that specializes in bridging the gap between fundamental and translational research. As of this year, 16,000 experts, including 88 Nobel laureates, have attended more than 800 meetings held at the Center in Lloyd Harbor, NY.
The Veronica Beard event demonstrated how partnerships bringing scientists, advocates, and mission-driven brands together around a shared purpose can play a powerful role in driving progress. As public support and private philanthropy continue to shape the future of science, collaborations like this one remind us that meaningful breakthroughs often begin with a shared passion.
“With your unwavering support, Penny’s Flight Foundation continues to soar above adversity,” said Kate and Chad Doerge. “Together, we are making an impact that is felt across the NF community and beyond.”