12th Annual Waxman Luncheon Raises Nearly $250K for Cancer Research at NYC Benefit

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The Mark Foundation will match funds raised as Alexandra Adame and Mary Slattery are honored at the 12th annual luncheon

The 12th annual Waxman Luncheon brought together New York’s fashion and philanthropic communities at Riverpark, raising nearly $250,000 for critical cancer research.

Hosted by the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging and Cancer, an affiliate of The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, the luncheon supports groundbreaking research focused on the connection between aging and cancer — the single greatest risk factor for the disease. Funds raised at the event will be matched by The Mark Foundation, amplifying support for research aimed at developing more effective treatments and prevention strategies.

Mary Slattery and Dr. Samuel Waxman attend The Waxman Luncheon At<br at Riverpark, NYC, May 6, 2026. Photo: ©Patrick McMullan, Paul Bruinooge/PMC

Honoring Leadership in Philanthropy

This year’s luncheon honored fashion entrepreneur Alexandra Adame and Corcoran broker Mary Slattery for their dedication to advancing cancer research and supporting the institute’s mission.

Luxury fashion house Safiyaa presented a special fashion showcase, adding a stylish centerpiece to an afternoon that has become a standout on New York’s charitable calendar.

Alexandra Adame attends The Waxman Luncheon At<br at Riverpark, NYC, May 6, 2026. Photo: ©Patrick McMullan, Paul Bruinooge/PMC

Luxury Auction Highlights

Guests also participated in live and silent auctions featuring luxury items from Judith Leiber, Ippolita, Carlos Falchi, Maximilian, Jimmy Choo and Kobi Halperin.

A raffle for an $18,000 diamond pendant necklace donated by Brilliant Star was among the afternoon’s highlights.

Nicole Levy, Tali Mehdyzadeh The Waxman Luncheon attend The Waxman Luncheon At<br at Riverpark, NYC, May 6, 2026. Photo: ©Patrick McMullan, Paul Bruinooge/PMC

Notable Guests

Among those attending were Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Alexandra Adame, Mary Slattery, Navarre Rice, Danielle Karnuts of Safiyaa and Tali Mehdyzadeh of Brilliant Star.

Event Leadership

The luncheon was chaired by Marion N. Waxman, Susan Pernick and Dina Koutroumanis, with co-chairs Erica Linden-Fineberg, Nancy Litman and Helen Vaysman.

Committee members included Sandy Ackerman, Jessica DiPalma, Orital Karelic, Norah Lawlor, Lorri Scott, Tali Mehdyzadeh and Randi Schatz.