VCU news

By Lissette Linares

RICHMOND, Va. — In the seventh annual Chris Cullather Classic, the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams will take on the Virginia Military Institute Keydets at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the ALLTEL Pavilion in the Stuart C. Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad St. Proceeds from the game will benefit brain tumor research at VCU’s Medical College of Virginia Hospitals.

For the first time, half-time entertainment will feature 10 participants in a celebrity free-throw contest that will raise additional funds for research. The contest will be presided over by Lt. Gov. John Hager, honorary chairman of the Chris Cullather Classic, and Santa, played by Ray Tate, owner of Old Dominion Glass. It will allow each participant five chances to make a basket. Fans can support the effort by pledging money for each successful shot.

Shoot-out contestants will be: Maj. Gen. Josiah Bunting III, VMI superintendent; "Big Al" Coleman from WRNL Sports Radio 910; Juan Conde, WRIC-TV 8 co-anchor; Richmond City Manager Calvin Jamison; Richmond Mayor Tim Kaine; Richmond Police Chief Jerry Oliver; VCU Athletic Director Richard Sander; Stuart Siegel, chief executive officer of S&K Famous Brands; VMI Athletic Director Donny White; and Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Albert Williams.

Each year for six years, one VCU men’s basketball game has been designated to raise funds for brain tumor research. Since the series’ inception in 1993, when VCU defeated Oklahoma in the first game, $750,000 has been raised.

Jack and Jean Cullather were instrumental in organizing the annual event after their 21-year-old son, Chris, died from multiple brain tumors in 1992. The Cullathers used their tragedy as a springboard for creating hope for others.

"The bottom line is that through the aggressive research being done, and aggressive treatment, Chris was able to fight the disease and lived for 14 months," Jack Cullather said. He believes that with the proper funding, treatments could be developed that would further lengthen survival rates.

Tickets are available for $15 at the Siegel Center box office or through Ticketmaster. VMI alumni who are interested in attending a pre-game reception can call 888-663-8696. For more information, call the MCV Foundation (804) 828-9734.