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More than $1 million raised for breast cancer research

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Fort Wayne, Indiana (June 6, 2007) — The fourteenth annual Vera Bradley Classic Golf & Tennis Tournament raised $1,045,250 during a three-day national event, held in Fort Wayne, Indiana. More than 600 participants and 300 volunteers came together to have fun and raise funds for breast cancer research. Women from more than 12 states came to Fort Wayne for the nation’s largest women’s amateur golf and tennis charity event.

All money raised at the event supports breast cancer research at the Indiana University Cancer Center in Indianapolis, a nationally ranked cancer center. The funds raised this year will be the second payment on a $6.8 million pledge made to the Indiana University Cancer Center last year bringing the total amount pledged to $10 million.

“This is a group effort. To break a million dollars for breast cancer research is truly an accomplishment! Every individual, company or foundation, whether they made a $5 or $20,000 donation should be proud to be part of this success,” says Catherine Hill, Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer Foundation Development Director.

The Vera Bradley Foundation endows a chair in oncology, Dr. Linda Malkas, and her 16-member research team at the Indiana University Cancer Center.

“After working with test tubes for 17 years, this event allows me to talk to people who have been affected by this disease. For me, the Vera Bradley Classic puts a face on breast cancer.” says Dr. Linda Malkas.

About the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer: Established in 1998, the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer raises funds for breast cancer research, programs and services. The Foundation receives support from the sale of special Vera Bradley's Pink Elephants handbags, luggage, and accessories, as well as from events such as the Vera Bradley Classic.