On June 8, golfers came together for a memorable day of golf, purpose, and giving back, all in support of pancreatic cancer research. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Country Club of New Canaan, the Project Purple community gathered in the heart of New Canaan for the 6th Annual Charity Golf Classic. The event brought together supporters, survivors, families, and advocates with a shared mission: to raise funds and awareness in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
“It’s unbelievable how everyone pulls together around this event. It brings people out from different communities, different walks of life, from Connecticut, New York, and all around the state.” Says Dr. Bret Schipper, surgical oncologist and Project Purple board member. “I think it’s a good cause, and people appreciate what Project Purple does for folks battling pancreatic cancer, so it gives people a good reason to rally together and enjoy a beautiful day on the golf course.”
Playing for a Cure
This year’s Golf Classic brought together 115 golfers and raised more than $140,000 in support of pancreatic cancer research and patient aid programs. To thank participants for their support, each golfer received a welcome gift bag
stocked with snacks, water, a Purple TRIC Can Cooler, Hat Clip Ball Maker, and a $100 Gift Card to the Pro Shop. It was a small way to show appreciation for everyone who helped make the day such a success.
The day began with golfers gathering for brunch on the patio, enjoying beautiful views of the course and sunny weather before teeing off. During brunch, participants had the opportunity to browse and bid on a variety of raffle and auction items, including gift cards, golf apparel, signed photographs and jerseys from professional athletes, Brooklyn Nets tickets, and more.
Following brunch, golfers headed to the course for a 12:00 p.m. shotgun start. Along the way, players had the exciting opportunity to test their skills in a “Beat the Pro” challenge featuring professional golfer Taylor Nickerson. The round was followed by a cocktail hour and dinner before closing out the evening with Project Purple’s Hall of Fame Celebration. This inspiring ceremony welcomed two new pancreatic cancer survivors into the Hall of Fame, recognizing their strength and impact on the Project Purple community.
Project Purple’s 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees: Cindy Lucenti and Mike Skaggs
This year, Cindy Lucenti and Mike Skaggs were inducted into the Hall of Fame, a tradition that recognizes individuals whose courage, perseverance, and impact embody the mission of Project Purple.
“Every year we induct someone into our Hall of Fame, and it’s a really special moment,” says Alex Palios, Project Purple Treasurer. “It truly is one of the most special things that we do here as an organization to honor those that are surviving, battling, and the families that are still fighting with them, rooting them on every day.”
Cindy Lucenti shared her powerful story, taking the audience through her journey with chemotherapy and Whipple surgery. She spoke about the strength and support she received from her family- especially her husband, who has been her rock throughout her battle.
Cindy expressed her gratitude for her support system and for Project Purple, whose encouragement has helped her every step of the way. She reflected on the challenges she faced, as well as the strength and encouragement she drew from those around her.
“I have met so many wonderful people along the way, and I’ve learned a lot. It’s exciting to see the huge strides being made in pancreatic cancer research. I just want to thank everyone. Thank you for this incredible honor.”
Alongside Cindy, Mike Skaggs was welcomed into the Hall of Fame and honored with a plaque, flowers, and the signature purple Hall of Fame jacket. Mike reflected on how unlikely the moment once seemed and how meaningful it was to celebrate alongside fellow survivors, supporters, and advocates.
“Seven years ago, there was no way I would have thought that I would be here doing this today. None of us did. Statistics didn’t support it. So again, I thank all of you for being here today.”
Contribute to Project Purple:
This amazing event would not have happened without the support of our community uniting under our mission to raise awareness and funds to tackle this dreadful disease. Anyone interested in getting involved with Project Purple and our powerful community, click on our Upcoming Events page for more information.
Interested in sponsoring this great event next year or signing up to golf? Fill out the interest form on this page.
