The PMC is on the cusp of a historic year in which our cumulative gift to Dana-Farber will exceed the $1 billion mark. As we arrive at this extraordinary testament to PMC’s growth, 45 years since our founding, it is an appropriate time for me to turn over the CEO reins to my talented colleague, Jarrett Collins. I will remain at his side but will focus my attention on this remarkable achievement that represents 45 years of generosity from PMC riders, volunteers, sponsors, and donors.
My primary responsibility will be to ensure that our $1 billion milestone is celebrated, amplified, and serves as a glorious retrospective of our collective accomplishments and, most importantly, at the same time, it should also serve as a springboard to the next billion. Cancer patients at DFCI and around the world need us to get to the next billion in the next 12 to 15 years. In addition to the $1 billion campaign, I will lead our escalating major gift and legacy programs and remain an integral part of our constant effort at event innovation.
Jarrett, a 15-year rider, has been a linchpin of our efforts, including helping me lead the organization over the past four years. I am proud to have built a world-class team of professional staff, head staff, directors, sponsors, riders, and volunteers. Jarrett and I have worked seamlessly since his arrival, and I have no doubt will continue to do so while sharing the spokesperson role with two distinctive styles. Funding the cures for cancer has always been our goal and it is imperative that we continue to grow our collective impact. What we have achieved in 45 years, we hope to duplicate in the next 12 to 15 years, helping propel Dana-Farber, indeed the world, toward the eradication of all cancers. Always remember that we became the number one fundraising event in the world by continually looking to the future.
Thank you for your ceaseless commitment to PMC’s mission. Just as I have since the first PMC in 1980, I will be riding and fundraising alongside you. That remains my greatest joy of all.
Billy Starr
Founder & Executive Director
