In a remarkable display of generosity, the V Foundation for Cancer Research successfully amassed an impressive $3.1 million during its fifth annual “Boo-Yah” event held in New York City on Wednesday night. This gathering pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Stuart Scott, the beloved former ESPN anchor whose vibrant personality and memorable catchphrases continue to resonate with sports fans worldwide.
The “Boo-Yah” event, aptly named after Scott’s signature expression heard frequently during his time on ESPN’s SportsCenter, served not only as a fundraiser but also as a celebration of his enduring impact. On the same evening, ESPN premiered “Boo-Yah: A Portrait of Stuart Scott,” a new installment in their “30 for 30” series. This film explores Scott’s personal journey, focusing on his courageous battle with cancer.
Andre Gaines, the film’s director and producer, highlighted Scott’s profound influence, noting, “He was forced to fight it and in such a public way because he was such a huge public figure. But to do it with that level of class and that level of grace and to be an inspiration for so many other folks, I mean, there are many, many cancer survivors today because of being inspired by the way that Stuart fought cancer.”
Founded with the support of ESPN, the V Foundation for Cancer Research continues to draw strength from Scott’s story. Its annual gala, hosted in the heart of Manhattan, exemplifies the foundation’s commitment to the fight against cancer, channeling the spirit and determination that Scott so vividly embodied.
“The V Foundation is a huge part of who we are at ESPN,” remarked James Pitaro, ESPN’s Chairman. “And all of our employees take so much pride in the V Foundation in general, in terms of our ability to contribute, pay it forward, pay back.” This sentiment reflects the deep-seated commitment of ESPN and its staff to continue supporting cancer research, inspired by the legacy of one of their own.
“The V Foundation is a huge part of who we are at ESPN,” said ESPN Chairman James Pitaro. “And all of our employees take so much pride in the V Foundation in general, in terms of our ability to contribute, pay it forward, pay back.”
Ten years after his death, Stuart Scott’s courage and his wit continue to drive this event as it adds to the growing total of more than $400 million the V Foundation has raised for cancer research.
“We have a science a science advisory committee that is second to none,” said Susan Scott, the sister of Stuart Scott, and board member of the V Foundation. “They say the country, I say the world. 100% of every dollar of donation goes directly to funding cancer research. And we will always do those two things.”
Susan Scott, her siblings and 90-year-old mother Jackie were part of the dual celebration of the film debut and gala.
It was hosted by Stuart Scott’s former co-anchor Rich Eisen and ABC News Senior Political Correspondent Rachel Scott, who has no relation to Stuart Scott.
Pro Football Hall of Famer, broadcaster and cancer survivor Randy Moss accepted the inaugural Stuart Scott Impact Award, thanking Scott’s mom for raising a game changer.
“I’m able to be myself on national television because Stuart Scott broke all the barriers and took care of that for not just me, but for other people of color to sit on television, the radio and be themselves,” Moss said.
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