It is with great sadness that we share the news that one of our Board Members, Steve Hayden, passed away on Wednesday, August 27th, 2025, at the age of 78.

A visionary advertising executive, Steve launched his career with Apple’s iconic “1984” Super Bowl ad and went on to become Vice Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of Ogilvy, where he was instrumental in guiding landmark campaigns for brands such as Kodak, Motorola, and Dove.

Steve joined the Damon Runyon Board of Directors in 2011 and was elected an Emeritus member in 2023. For over a decade, he lent his prodigious talents to the Foundation to aid in its branding and marketing efforts.

“Steve was legendary in the creative advertising world, and we are truly grateful for his commitment to this organization and our mission. On a personal note, he was also an exceptionally generous, kind, and thoughtful person who will be greatly missed,” said Yung S. Lie, PhD, President and CEO of Damon Runyon.

“Steve always brought a positive can-do attitude to the Board,” remarked Board Member Elaine V. Fuchs, PhD. “He made those of us on the scientific research side feel at home around him in a special way.”

We are deeply saddened by his loss and will miss him dearly. His Damon Runyon legacy will carry on in the life-saving research that his fundraising efforts and wise guidance made possible.