The American Cancer Society has awarded KPMG LLP with the inaugural Eugene D. O'Kelly Award, named after the firm's former chairman who passed away in September 2005, only months after being diagnosed with brain cancer.
The award was given in recognition of the firm's leadership and support in the fight against cancer, and will be presented annually to an organization that exemplifies O'Kelly's commitment to community service and volunteerism.
"The American Cancer Society is pleased to recognize KPMG as a respected industry leader and advocate in the fight against cancer," said chief executive of the American Cancer Society for New York and New Jersey Donald Distasio, in a statement. "[Firm chairman and chief executive Timothy] Flynn and KPMG have been powerful partners in helping us move closer toward achieving our mission of eliminating cancer as a major health problem, and we're thankful for their support."
Flynn accepted the award at the cancer society's inaugural black-tie Corporate Cares Gala in New York on May 11.
Corinne O'Kelly, O'Kelly's wife, served as honorary gala chairwoman and said that her husband would be humbled and honored that the firm he led has been recognized with an award named for him.
KPMG has played an active role in raising funds to help the American Cancer Society, supporting the firm's signature "Relay For Life" activities since 2001. In 2005, nearly 800 KPMG employees from 19 states participated in Relay For Life events in their communities and helped raise over $220,000 for cancer research, education, advocacy and service.
