T.J. Martell Gala Raises More Than $1 Million For Cancer Research

The T.J. Martell Foundation topped its own fundraising record by raising $1 million for the fight against cancer during the 2020 Nashville Honors Gala, held Monday (Feb. 24) at the Omni Nashville Hotel. The 12th annual event was co-chaired by entertainment executive Steve Buchanan and Sweet Talk Publicity President/Owner Jensen Sussman.

The gala saluted Amy Grant (Tony Martell Outstanding Entertainment Achievement Award), artist manager Clint Higham (Joel A. Katz Music is Medicine Chairman’s Award), Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center’s Dr. Jordan Berlin (Medical Research Advancement Award), commercial real estate developer Patrick G. Emery (Spirit of Nashville Award), and community builders Laurie and Jim Seabury (Lifetime Humanitarian Award).

Highlights of the evening included performances by Carly Pearce and Michael Ray (saluting Clint Higham), Wade Hayes (Dr. Jordan Berlin), CeCe Winans (Patrick G. Emery), Rascal Flatts (Laurie and Jim Seabury), and Vince Gill honoring wife Amy Grant with special accompaniment by their daughter Corinna.

Reba McEntire and Joel A. Katz were among the presenters, and actor Charles Esten served as emcee. Special guest Kenny Chesney surprised longtime manager Higham onstage to cap-off the inspirational night.

“I’m so proud of the many people who generously gave their time and resources to make this a milestone event for the T.J. Martell Foundation,” shared Laura Heatherly, CEO of T.J. Martell Foundation. “It is truly wonderful to see so many people come together to help in the fight against cancer.” Additionally, John Huie serves as the organization’s Southern Region Board President.