Our History

Celebrating 31 Years

Since 1993, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation has hosted the Women of Distinction Luncheon, which over the past 31 years has become the top fundraiser for the organization raising more than $34 million for research and education programs. Thanks to your generous support over the years, the Foundation has been at the forefront of major scientific breakthroughs for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

The tremendous growth of this event over its history speaks to the power of the fiercely committed women in our community. Our success is possible only with the generosity of loyal friends like you.

We are immensely grateful for your continued support as we push on towards our mission to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. Thank you for being a part of the Women of Distinction family.

Our Honorees

Our Fashion Shows

Our Timeline

1967

The Beginning

The National Foundation for Ileitis and Colitis is founded by Shelby and Bill Modell, Irwin and Suzanne Rosenthal, and Dr. Henry Janowitz.

1967

1972

Patient Education

The Foundation takes its first step in patient education by publishing the brochure, “Some Frequently Asked Questions about Ileitis & Colitis.”

1972

1993

Inaugural Event

The first Women of Distinction Luncheon Event takes place in NYC.

1993

1998

Celebrating Five Years!

Co-Chair Karen Lauder, Pamela Farkas, honoree Barbara Barrie, honoree Dr. Georgia Witkin, Barbara Solomon, MC Rosanna Scotto and Co-Chair Ellen Crown.

1998

1999

Venue Change

Women of Distinction Luncheon officially moves venue from The Pierre to The Waldorf Astoria, where it is held for the next 18 years.

1999

2001

DNA Breakthrough

Through research funded by the Foundation, the first gene to confer susceptibility to Crohn’s disease, NOD2 on chromosome 16, is discovered.

2001

2003

Celebrating Ten Years!

Designer Douglas Hannant with Co-Chairs Ellen Crown, Michele Sweetwood and Elyse Newhouse.

2003

2004

Tip Top Fundraising

Women of Distinction Luncheon raises over $1 million, positioning itself as the highest fundraising event for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation nationwide.

2004

2008

Celebrating 15 Years!

Honoree Nancy Lynn with host, Cynthia McFadden.

2008

2011

Crohn’s & Colitis Caucus

The Foundation establishes the first-ever Crohn’s & Colitis Caucus,  a bi-partisan group of Members of the House of Representatives that work together to advance policies that help patients. 

2011

2013

Celebrating 20 Years!

Honoree Michelle Swarzman, with Honorary Chair, Diane Miller, and family.

2013

2014

RISK Study

The largest group of pediatric patients in the history of Crohn’s disease studied from the time of diagnosis. This study has been able to identify biomarkers that can predict the disease course and severity in kids with IBD even at the time of diagnosis.

2014