Company News
A Milestone Celebration, A Night of Giving: Dave Roberts & EXCEL
Baton Rouge's gala raised over $1.7 million for cancer care, blending fashion with community impact.
2 min read
This year marked a special time for Baton Rouge: An event that dates back over 50 years returned, rebranded, and reignited for an unforgettable evening, blending glamour and impact while honoring twenty of the community’s “Best Dressed” men and women in support of cancer care. The event was held at the Raising Cane’s River Center, and this year’s gala raised over $1.7 million in pledges and donations, proving that style and purpose can walk hand in hand.
This year, the funds raised are being directed toward expanding infusion spaces at Our Lady of the Lake's North Baton Rouge campus and updating the infusion center at Our Lady of the Lake’s main campus. Patients will soon benefit from upgraded treatment chairs and the ability to have loved ones at their side during infusion treatment. These are tangible, immediate improvements that donors can see within a matter of months.
Of course, the Gala’s success depends on more than just honorees and sponsors. Local businesses, volunteers, and event partners donate their time, services, and talent to ensure every detail enhances the evening. From event production to the generosity of donors, the gala is a genuine community effort.
At the heart of the commitment is Dave Roberts, EXCEL Founder and CEO, the Legacy sponsor of this year’s event. For Roberts, this cause is deeply personal and is a cornerstone of EXCEL’s philanthropic identity.
Kynley Lemoine, Chairwoman of the 2025 Gala, captured that sentiment by sharing, “My parents were both diagnosed with cancer within two weeks of each other. My dad succumbed to the fight four years ago, and thankfully, my mom is still in remission. Cancer affects so many people, and that is part of what has fueled me to get involved, and Dave has been an integral part of all this.”
The spirit of the event carried over 1,800 guests through a night of purpose, passion, and impact, and turned into a vibrant catalyst for change.
This year, the funds raised are being directed toward expanding infusion spaces at Our Lady of the Lake's North Baton Rouge campus and updating the infusion center at Our Lady of the Lake’s main campus. Patients will soon benefit from upgraded treatment chairs and the ability to have loved ones at their side during infusion treatment. These are tangible, immediate improvements that donors can see within a matter of months.
Of course, the Gala’s success depends on more than just honorees and sponsors. Local businesses, volunteers, and event partners donate their time, services, and talent to ensure every detail enhances the evening. From event production to the generosity of donors, the gala is a genuine community effort.
At the heart of the commitment is Dave Roberts, EXCEL Founder and CEO, the Legacy sponsor of this year’s event. For Roberts, this cause is deeply personal and is a cornerstone of EXCEL’s philanthropic identity.
Kynley Lemoine, Chairwoman of the 2025 Gala, captured that sentiment by sharing, “My parents were both diagnosed with cancer within two weeks of each other. My dad succumbed to the fight four years ago, and thankfully, my mom is still in remission. Cancer affects so many people, and that is part of what has fueled me to get involved, and Dave has been an integral part of all this.”
The spirit of the event carried over 1,800 guests through a night of purpose, passion, and impact, and turned into a vibrant catalyst for change.
Share this article