Gala emcee, Rick Allen, of NASCAR on NBC
On February 22, the 12th Annual Team Jack Gala, presented by Fat Brain Toys, was an unforgettable evening filled with emotion and inspiration, dedicated to childhood brain cancer. Held at The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, the event brought together 700 guests to raise both funds and awareness for childhood brain cancer, the leading cause of disease-related death in children. Through sponsorships, donations, and live and silent auctions, the event raised over $800,000 for this important cause.
Former Husker Jeremiah Sirles kicked off the evening with a warm welcome, followed by the invocation and personal remarks from Rex & Danielle Burkhead. Team Jack Foundation Board Member and Aunt of Jack Hoffman, Tiffany Miller, shared a few words about Jack and his journey, including excerpts from his graduation speech in May 2024. This touching speech honored Jack Hoffman, who bravely fought brain cancer for nearly 14 years before passing just weeks before the Gala.
Dr. Mark Kieran of Day One Biopharmaceuticals presented the Team Jack Teammate of the Year Award to Monica Waggoner of the ForeverNate Foundation for Pediatric Brain Cancer Research. Kieran highlighted Monica’s significant contributions to the Team Jack Foundation and her ongoing support for childhood brain cancer research.
Mark and Karen Carson of Fat Brain Toys and team.
In another inspiring moment, Mark and Adam Carson from Fat Brain Toys presented a $130,000 donation to Team Jack which was accepted by brain cancer survivor Alexandria Kron. They entertained the crowd with humor and excitement, which was followed up by a motivating video message from former Nebraska Cornhusker and NFL linebacker, Will Compton. The Carsons and their Fat Brain Toys team, alongside their customers, continue to be invaluable supporters of the Foundation’s mission.
Don Coulter, MD, UNMC Division of Hematology/Oncology
Dr. Don Coulter, of UNMC’s Division of Hematology/Oncology, shared the progress of the Nebraska Childhood Brain Tumor Program, funded by the Team Jack Foundation, which now provides regional families with access to specialists and more than a dozen clinical trials without leaving Nebraska. Dr. Coulter credited the Team Jack Foundation with fundamentally transforming pediatric brain tumor care in the state, stating, “the focused determination of the Hoffmans and Team Jack has changed the landscape of pediatric brain tumor research and treatment in our state.”
Over 20 families affected by childhood brain cancer attended the event, with Team Jack Family Sponsor Selden Trucking helping to make their presence possible. A powerful video featured over 100 children, including survivors, fighters, and those who have passed away, reminding everyone of the strength of those affected as well as the Team Jack Foundation’s mission to change the future for children battling brain cancer.
Liam Settles and his family on stage.
The Gala spotlighted Liam Settles, a brave 12-year-old from Papillion, Nebraska, who has fought his high-grade glioma with strength and positivity. His story was sponsored by The Home Agency, the Jim & Sharri Baldonado family, and BHA Real Estate. During the event, the Baldonado family presented the Team Jack Foundation with a $50,000 donation for research that was accepted by the Settles family. The Baldonado family has been an outstanding supporter of the Foundation since 2014.
Following Liam’s story, the donation appeal raised more than $150,000 in just a few minutes, beginning with a generous $20,000 pledge from a donor in the crowd. This incredible show of generosity from Team Jack supporters highlighted their commitment to making a difference in the lives of children with brain cancer.
To conclude the evening, Leland Poppe of First Interstate Bank, the Keynote Speaker Sponsor, introduced Kirk Cousins, quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, who joined emcee Rick Allen on stage. Cousins shared valuable insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and his personal connections to Nebraska, including playing against the Huskers in 2011 and later becoming teammates with former Nebraska players Will Compton and Spencer Long at the Washington Redskins. This created a lighthearted yet meaningful atmosphere, strengthening the bond with the Nebraska community.
Keynote speaker, Kirk Cousins, with Rick Allen.
Kirk Cousins remarked, “I don’t know of a better example of an athlete stewarding their platform than what Rex Burkhead and these Nebraska players did back in the Spring of 2013. If I’m ever asked, ‘How should an athlete steward their platform?’ I would say, google Rex Burkhead, Jack Hoffman, Nebraska Football, and read as much as you can. That is how you steward a platform as an athlete. Just phenomenal.”
Team Jack Foundation, Executive Director, Kylie Dockter, said, “thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, and attendees, the 12th Annual Team Jack Gala was a resounding success, raising critical funds for childhood brain cancer research. We are incredibly grateful for your commitment to our mission and for standing with us in the fight against childhood brain cancer.”
Mark your calendars for the 13th Annual Gala to be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. To learn more visit https://teamjackfoundation.org/gala.