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The James Valvano memorial Celebrity Auction is a celebrity memorabilia
auction staged annually by the brothers of Phi Kappa Psi at Duke
University. The proceeds of this event benefit the children's
cancer research program at Duke Children's Hospital. During its
twenty-one year history, the Auction has blossomed into Duke's
Largest, best-received, and most exciting fund raising event.
For the last four years, we have teamed with Pam Valvano and
the Children's Miracle Network and made all gifts in the name
of the late Jim Valvano, former North Carolina State University
Basketball coach.
Our operation is far broader than the auction alone. In addition,
we attract corporate sponsorship, involve Duke parents and alumni
extensively, hold various special events, all of which involve
various mailings and telethons. Last year alone, the brothers
were responsible for 2700 letters, 175 faxes, 900 phone calls,
and 1500 hours of labor. These efforts resulted in raising over
$20,000 for children's cancer research. Learning from experience, this year's auction, to be held October 24th in the Bryan Center, promises to be even bigger and better. In addition to philanthropy, the brotherhood maintains their commitment to the children through a volunteer program both at the Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House. Of all these efforts, former Auction Chairperson Bill Bermont said "it was rewarding to be part of a meaningful charity initiative which was characterized by a rigor and professionalism that is unprecedented on any college campus." We hope to maintain this unparalleled tradition. Any questions about this event and or the fund raising efforts of Phi Kappa Psi can be directed to Auction Chairpersons Matt Smear (919) 613-0757 mcs9@acpub.duke.edu or Eric McCollum @(919) 286-1821 |