NEW YORK – The intersection of high fashion and heartfelt philanthropy took center stage on April 13 at the Waldorf Astoria, as the Greater New York Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation hosted its 33rd Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon. The gala event, which featured a stunning runway presentation by Oscar de la Renta, raised nearly $2.2 million to support the fight against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The luncheon is a hallmark of the New York social and charitable calendar, celebrating individuals whose leadership and dedication improve the lives of the millions of Americans living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Since its inception in 1993, the event has raised nearly $38 million for research, support, and educational programs.
A Runway for a Cause This year’s event was highlighted by an exclusive runway show featuring the Oscar de la Renta 2026 Pre-Fall Collection. Guests were treated to the designer’s signature elegance, showcasing vibrant textures and sophisticated silhouettes that define the upcoming season.
Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 33rd Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon Raises $2.2 Million for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation© BFA.com
The impact of the fashion show extends beyond the afternoon’s festivities; the “Women of Distinction x Oscar de la Renta” shopping drive is currently active through April 18, allowing supporters to purchase looks from the runway with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Foundation.
Honoring Excellence and Courage The luncheon, hosted by award-winning broadcast journalist Lori Stokes, honored three individuals for their extraordinary contributions to the IBD community and medicine.
Dr. Millie D. Long, M.D., MPH, was named the 2026 Woman of Distinction in Medicine. A Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of North Carolina, Dr. Long is a titan in the field of clinical research. Her work focuses on preventing IBD complications and advancing women’s health within the community. Already a recipient of the 2024 Sherman Prize, Dr. Long was recognized for her tireless efforts to improve patient outcomes.
Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 33rd Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon Raises $2.2 Million for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation© BFA.com
The 2026 Champions of Courage award was presented to Randi Siegal and Brett Siegal.
Brett Siegal, a 17-year-old junior at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, was recognized for his resilience after being diagnosed with Crohn’s at age 13. Despite a severe flare that sidelined his athletic ambitions, Brett persevered to regain his health and co-created a nutrition guide to help other young patients manage their diet and hydration.
Randi Siegal, an entrepreneur and founder of the Palm Beach boutique Rapunzel’s Closet, shared her own journey with ischemic colitis and her more recent battle with chordoma, a rare spinal cancer. Her strength and continued commitment to community service, including her work with Dorot, served as a poignant reminder of the “courage” the award celebrates.
Moving Toward a Cure “We are proud to celebrate these extraordinary honorees whose leadership and compassion continue to move our mission forward,” said Michael Osso, President & CEO of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. “Their impact extends far beyond their individual achievements—they inspire hope, drive progress in research and care, and help us get closer every day to a future free from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.”
Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 33rd Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon Raises $2.2 Million for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation© BFA.com
The success of the event was bolstered by a suite of high-profile sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Pfizer, along with AbbVie, Takeda, Lilly, and Sanofi.
With IBD affecting nearly 1 in 100 Americans, the funds raised at the Waldorf Astoria are critical. The Foundation has played a role in every major research breakthrough in the field, and this year’s $2.2 million contribution ensures that the momentum toward finding a cure continues to accelerate
For those interested in supporting the mission or participating in the Oscar de la Renta shopping drive, visit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation website for more details through April 18.
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization focused on both research and patient support for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Its mission is to cure Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases.
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