NWIP honors Runstads, raises record $1.6 million for cancer research at the Hutch

Jon and Judy Runstad (above, left) received the E. Donnall Thomas Medal of Achievement in recognition of their generous community leadership. The Runstads were joined by 1,300 guests, including 1997 medal winners Jane and George Russell (above, right) and Dottie and Don Thomas, the medal’s namesake. Singer Diahann Carroll met with Hutch President and Director Lee Hartwell and his wife, Theresa Naujack (right). Photos by Carl Murray

A record-breaking 1,300 guests came together at the fifth annual NorthWest Industry Partnership dinner to honor two of the Northwest’s most active business and community leaders, while raising $1.6 million for the Hutchinson Center.

Jon and Judy Runstad received the 2000 E. Donnall Thomas Medal of Achievement in recognition of their many years of service to education, the arts, quality of life issues, and civic and government concerns. Jon is chairman and CEO of Wright Runstad & Company, a Seattle developer. Judy is a land-use attorney with Foster Pepper & Shefelman PLLC.

“There is not enough time to review all that Jon and Judy have achieved, but we are fortunate that, as members of this community, we see and live with the evidence of their accomplishments every day,” said Doug Norberg, vice-chairman of Wright Runstad & Company.

The Washington State Convention and Trade Center again proved to be the perfect venue for the evening as guests dined on an elaborate four-course dinner specially prepared by award-winning chef Jeffrey O’Brien. Singer and actress Diahann Carroll provided the evening’s elegant entertainment.