Gibson Gives, Women Who Rock, and Magee-Womens Research Institute hosted an exclusive evening of music, advocacy, and action—spotlighting the urgent need to restore funding for women’s health research after a $2.5 billion cut in 2025
Gibson Gives, Women Who Rock, and Magee-Womens Research Institute united last Thursday evening at the legendary Gibson Los Angeles Showroom for Strike A Chord for Women’s Health—an exclusive, invitation-only evening of music, knowledge and advocacy for women’s health, and future action. The event brought together renowned music artists, industry leaders, and global health champions to shine a spotlight on the urgent need for investment in women’s health research. Against the sobering backdrop of $2.5 billion in women’s health research canceled in 2025, the night became both a celebration of resilience and a powerful call to protect critical funding, ensuring that lifesaving breakthroughs for women are never overlooked again.
With $2.5 billion in women’s health research canceled in 2025, the evening underscored the urgent need to protect and expand funding for groundbreaking discoveries that impact women everywhere. Guests were reminded that together, we can keep labs open, fuel innovation, and ensure women’s health breakthroughs are never overlooked again.
The evening began with a warm reception where guests enjoyed champagne, cocktails, and curated hors d’oeuvres. Melinda Colaizzi, Founder and CEO of Women Who Rock, opened the program with an inspiring presentation on the power of music to fuel a global movement for women’s health equality. Legendary musician Sheila E. then took the stage to share heartfelt remarks about the importance of advocacy and the role of artists in amplifying vital causes.
ichael Annichine, CEO of Magee-Womens Research Institute, delivered a powerful update on the state of women’s health research, highlighting both the challenges of funding and the groundbreaking discoveries—such as a future vaccine for breast cancer—in development at Magee-Womens. His remarks underscored the urgency of continued support to keep labs open and protect the future of women’s healthcare. Beth Heidt, CMO of Gibson, followed with reflections on Gibson’s long-standing partnership with the annual Women Who Rock benefit concert and how its philanthropic division, Gibson Gives continues to drive social impact through music and its iconic artists worldwide.
“We were surrounded by exactly the kind of energy needed to move women’s health forward. I’m deeply grateful to Gibson, Gibson Gives, and to Libby Coffey, for so intentionally bringing this group together around our mission” says Michael Annichine, CEO of Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation. “Sharing the facts about the state of women’s health and seeing the room fully engaged was incredibly encouraging. It reminded me that while the challenges are real, progress is absolutely possible. Your presence, your time, and your voice matter. Together, we can drive change and keep this movement—and the momentum—going until women receive the research support and care they deserve.”
“From Sheila E.’s powerful presence and remarks to Alex Richie’s beautiful performance, the night showcased what Women Who Rock stands for: women using their voices to create meaningful change” adds Melinda Colaizzi, Founder & CEO, Women Who Rock. “We’re honored to partner with Gibson to amplify women in music and shine a light on the critical state of women’s health research benefiting Magee-Womens Research Institute, the nation’s first and largest institute dedicated solely to women’s health This night proved that when music and advocacy come together, people listen.”
“’Strike a Chord for Women’s Health’ is a powerful reminder of how music can drive meaningful change. At Gibson, we believe in the ability of artists and industry leaders to amplify critical causes, and this evening shows the impact of uniting music and medicine for the future of women’s health,” continues Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer, Gibson. “Through Gibson Gives, we are proud to stand alongside Women Who Rock and Magee-Womens Research Institute to ensure that lifesaving research continues, and that women everywhere receive the support and breakthroughs they need.”
The program culminated in a soulful acoustic performance by rising musician and Gibson Spotlight Artist Alex Ritchie, whose set of three songs captivated the audience to a standstill and reinforced the evening’s theme of music as a force for change. Guests departed with exclusive Women Who Rock holiday gifts, and an action checklist commemorating their commitment to advancing women’s health.
Strike a Chord for Women’s Health was more than an event—it was a movement. By uniting the worlds of music and medicine, the evening amplified the urgent need for investment in women’s health research and inspired attendees to take action. Together, Gibson Gives, Women Who Rock, and Magee-Womens Research Institute demonstrate the power of collaboration to create lasting impact for women everywhere.
To learn more and to donate directly to Magee Womens Research Institute, Women Who Rock, and Gibson Gives programs, visit:
Women Who Rock:
WOMENWHOROCK.INFO | IG | FB
Magee-Womens Research Institute:
MAGEE WOMENS.ORG | FB | IG | DONATE
Gibson Gives:
Gibson:
GIBSON.COM | X | IG | FB | TT | GIBSON APP | GIBSON GARAGE NASHVILLE | GIBSON GARAGE LONDON | GIBSON CERTIFIED VINTAGE | GIBSON RECORDS | GIBSON LIFESTYLE | GIBSON TV | GIBSON TV EN ESPANOL
Photo Credit: Steve Rose
