Cancer and Careers recently celebrated its 20^th anniversary among some of its closest industry beauty friends and supporters. On Friday, May 20^th, 2022, the ballroom at 583 Park Avenue was filled with familiar faces who gathered to mark the organization’s two-decade milestone and to recognize the vision of its Founder, CEW President, Carlotta Jacobson.

Heidi Manheimer, CEW Foundation’s Chairwoman, acknowledged all of the supporters who have made the nonprofit a reality and a success. “Today we celebrate Cancer and Careers’ first 20 years. The woman who founded it, the Board who supported it, the industry that embraced it, and the 500,000 patients, survivors, and healthcare professionals who turn to it each year, online, in print, and in person.”

Carrie Moore, Head of Beauty and Health at Condé Nast, the event’s presenting sponsor, spoke about her company’s close relationship with Cancer and Careers, and noted the important role that the organization plays in and outside of the industry.  “Cancer and Careers has not only brought awareness to cancer in the workplace but has helped the lives of so many brilliant people we interact with every day—even within our own Condé Nast Beauty family.”  She finished with a call to action, noting, “While contributions from the many influential brands I see here today are crucial, individual donations are equally as important. I hope that everyone here recognizes the impact they can make.”

Cancer and Careers’ Executive Director, Rebecca V. Nellis, shared her gratification for what the organization has accomplished. “Cancer and Careers flies a little under the radar, until we are needed. And then, we become essential…What a privilege to be able to be there, when somebody needs you—and to be in a position to respond.”

The origin story of Cancer and Careers was captured for the first time in a special pre-taped interview with Carlotta and WWD and Beauty Inc Beauty Editor, Jenny B. Fine. Carlotta spoke candidly, with a sense of humor and humility. Questions covered everything from how she built the organization from scratch to the beauty industry’s early support. “There wouldn’t be Cancer and Careers without the beauty industry,” Carlotta emphasized.

Jill Scalamandre, CEO of Beekman 1802, and CEW Chairwoman, spoke about how the early concept for Cancer and Careers struck a chord with her personally, and with the industry as a whole, noting how far it has come.

“I am embarrassed to be standing here alone when so many people in this room helped build Cancer and Careers,” Carlotta remarked.  Her acceptance speech included a loving tribute to her older brother, Carmen Lestino, who passed away from cancer, and the important role work played for him. “I have trouble picturing him as gone, but I see him every day in the work of Cancer and Careers and in all the people that we help.”

It was an emotional and memorable afternoon—a fitting tribute to the appreciation felt for Carlotta, Cancer and Careers, and the generosity of our industry.

To donate to Cancer and Careers and help fuel the next 20 years, please visit cancerandcareers.org/donate

Cancer and Careers is grateful to the following sponsors for this event: Condé Nast, AMC Networks, HSN, Pfizer, P&G Beauty, QVC, Shiseido Americas, Tweezerman, ELEMIS, Macy’s, Robertet, Nordstrom, Ulta, Beauty Inc, Kaplow and WWD.