Written by John Preer, Correspondent

Blazers that graduated between 2002 and 2008 may remember Dr. Ronald M. Zaccari as then, acting president of VSU. During Dr. Zaccari’s term and in the years that followed, the former president has been an active member in the Valdosta community.

Now, Dr. Zaccari is returning to the VSU campus to be honored at a gala sponsored by the Cancer Coalition of South Georgia.   Dr. Zaccari was diagnosed with cancer himself in 2015 and the purpose of this event is to raise money for cancer screenings and community research.  Upon receiving his diagnosis, Dr. Zaccari turned to art and writing as a means of therapy.  He has praised the Cancer Coalition’s local work with cancer survivors and their families in the Valdosta community.

The gala will be held today in the Student Union Ballroom.  This will be a formal event with a plated dinner and live musical entertainment provided.  Attendants may participate in the live and silent auctions, as well as donate items to be sold.  There will be space available for memorials and honorariums in the program booklet as well as business ads.  All donations to the Cancer Coalition made during the events will go directly to the Valdosta community.

“We are excited to honor Dr. Zaccari and to have him share his story and his passion for the Cancer Coalition,” said Cancer Coalition CEO, Diane Fletcher. “With the community’s support, we hope to exceed our fundraising goals so we may continue our local, lifesaving work against cancer.”

With help from the community, the Cancer Coalition hopes to honor Dr. Zaccari and all local families touched by cancer by continuing its health navigation, education and support for local survivors.

For more information about sponsorship or how to purchase tickets for the event, contact Doris Pierce-Hardy via email at doris.pierce-hardy@sgacancer.org or via phone at 229-809-6882.