
The Colorado Neurological Institute (CNI) 2018 Spotlight on Hope 30th Anniversary Gala honored the founders, physicians, medical professionals and other community advocates who have supported and sustained the organization for three decades. Long-time community speaker and volunteer Scottie Iverson served as mistress of ceremonies with comments made by CNI Executive Director Tami Lack Crawford and CEO Ryan Simpson, representing Swedish Medical Center who with HealthONE were Presenting Sponsors.
To be eligible for nationwide grants and sponsorships CNI has adopted a 2nd working name–“Center for Neurological Innovation”–to reflect its continued research efforts and initiatives.
More than 400 guests attended the April 21st Gala at CU South Denver which emphasized the Past, Present and Future. Staff recognition went to Ellen Belle, Debra Bandstra, Judith Stuckey, and Lorre Gibson. Special recognition went to more than three dozen individuals who have contributed to medical advances, research and community outreach during CNI’s 30 years of existence. Among founders and primary supporters recognized were:
Past Founders and Early Supporters:
Dr. Gary VanderArk
Mr. Nick Hilger
Dr. Peter Ricci
Dr. Paul Levisohn
Ms. Kay Phillips
Ms. Mary White
Charlie Ferguson
Don Johnson
Don Smith
Carol Greenwald
Chuck Siebert
Chris O’Brien
Trish Leavitt
LuAnne Williams
Dr. Rajeev Kumar
Present physicians, medical professionals and supporters:
LaFawn Biddle
Dr. Richard and Mrs. Linda VG Kelley
Dr. Cori Millen
Bill and Leslie Vollbracht
Drs. Allen and Diana Bowling
Dr. David Kelsall
ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter
Rick and Robin Fort
Dan Weyland
Future Innovators:
Dr. Alex Dietz
Suzanne Douthat Birkans
Kevin Schmidt, John Carlin, and Tom Palizzi
Dr. Charles Livsey
Dr. Lotta Granholm-Bentley
Jameson Smith
Kelly Corey
Dr. Adam Hebb
Dr. Eric Luppo
Established in 1988 CNI offers access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care, support services, clinical trials, outpatient neuro rehab and counseling. CNI is home to 70 physician and research associates, works to advance clinical trials into new treatments for MS, Parkinson’s and other brain and spinal conditions. Visit www.thecni.org or call 303-788-4010 or email info@thecni.org for more information or to volunteer or make a donation.
- Tami Lack Crawford, Jan Blankenagel, Scottie Iverson
- Jan Blankenagel, Scottie Iverson
- Dinner was served for approximately 400
- This year marks the 30th Anniversary for the Colorado Neurological Institute
- Pam Rush-Negri, Joe Negri, Josh and Lisa Rudin
- Stephanie Melgar, Sarah Thomas
- Stephanie Melgar, Sarah Thomas
- LaFawn Biddle
- Amy Evans, Johnnie Jarosh, Alicia Novak
- Sophia & John Winter, Michael Frederick
- Irv and Nina Marie Aaronberg, Dr. Wesley VanderArk and Phylis VanderArk
- Auctioneer Doug Tisdale, Stephanie Bender
- Doug Tisdale took charge of the auction items
- Edie Marks and Doug Tisdale solicit donations
- Doug Tisdale
- More than 400 attended the CNI 30th Anniversary Gala at CU South Denver
- Recognition for Ellen Belle, Debra Bandstra, Judith Stuckey, Lorre Gibson
- Executive Director Tam Lack Crawford welcomes guests
- Executive Director Tam Lack Crawford thanks the board, sponsors and physicians
- Scottie Iverson served as the emcee for the annual CNI Gala
- Scottie Iverson thanked award winners and sponsors
- Swedish Medical Center CEO Ryan Simpson thanks guest for their long-term supporters
- Bogi Pal, Florence Ricci, Dr. Peter Ricci, Solla Pal, Oddny Christiansen, Os Asgeir,
- Arlene Johnson, Don & Kitty Gregg
- Linda Kercheval, Edie Marks, Charlie Kercheval
- Dana Vollbracht, John and Andi Freyer, Andi Renshaw
- Carrie Grimm, Brad Lauffer
- Kim and Mona Baker
- Betsy Mathies, Carmen Larson, Inyata Williams, Alison and Troy Talbert
- Tom & Leslie Ryan, Dr. Alicia Oberle, Dr. Alex Dietz, Dr. Wendy Pierce
- Dr. Richard and Linda Kelley
- Brendan Warner, Susan Kennedy, Aaron Pierce
- Dave Rhode, Chris and Kelly Hines, Sara Rhode
- Stacie Saavedra, Lynn Bunnell, Mike Saavedra
- David and Pam Pasternak
- Dr. VanderArk speaks with Scottie Iverson