The University will honor Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., and two others at the Sixth Annual Cancer Gala hosted by Wolf Blitzer on April 25 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

Kennedy, who has been diagnosed with brain cancer, will receive the Cancer Compassion Award for his involvement in pushing for affordable health care on Capitol Hill. Additionally, professor of radiology Rachel Brem will be awarded the Commitment to Overcoming Cancer Award for her work as director of breast imaging and intervention at the GW Medical Center, and breast cancer survivor Jeanette Michael will receive the Spirit of Life Award.

“There is nothing we do as a Board that exceeds this gala,” said Chairman of the GW Board of Trustees Russell Ramsey. “All of us have been affected some way or another by a friend or family member having cancer, so it is important to contribute and participate.”

At the Board of Trustees meeting last March, trustees praised Kennedy’s 47 years of service in the Senate.

“As you can imagine over his tenure, [Kennedy] has had many accomplishments,” trustee Mark Hughes said at the March Board meeting.

Proceeds from the gala will aid comprehensive cancer programs in the D.C. area.

“I can’t think of anything the school does where funds really are used to promote educational programs like this one,” trustee Allan From said. “We as a Board need to celebrate this most worthwhile endeavor.”

Blitzer, host of CNN’s “The Situation Room,” will be the emcee for the evening and live entertainment will be provided by Grammy award-winning musician Al Petteway and Amy White.

The event is chaired by University President Steven Knapp and Sen. Michael Enzi, R-Wyo., and hosted by University Provost and Vice President of Health Affairs John Williams. Tickets to attend the gala cost $500 and can be purchased at gwcancergala.org.