The Evening of Energy is Countdown’s signature annual fundraising event, an inspiring gathering that brings together leaders in science, medicine, biotech, corporate and organizational leadership, philanthropy, entertainment, and wellness for an unforgettable night of purpose and impact.
Each year, the gala spotlights groundbreaking mitochondrial research, powerful personal stories, and meaningful partnerships—all centered around the transformative potential of cellular energy to shape the future of health.
Proceeds from the Evening of Energy directly support research, education, and collaboration aimed at advancing mitochondrial science and accelerating discoveries that impact millions.
Hosts
Gina Tash & Scott Clary
Gala Co-Chairs
Jenni Nowak & Maggie Awbrey
Countdown Award Recipient
Nick Lane, PhD
Powerhouse Award Recipients
John Driskell Hopkins & Jennifer Hopkins
The 2026 Evening of Energy marked an exciting new chapter for Countdown, raising over $1 million to advance mitochondrial research and power the future of health.
This year also introduced the inaugural Countdown Award, recognizing pioneers whose work has fundamentally shaped the field of mitochondrial science. We were honored to present this first award to Douglas C. Wallace, PhD, whose groundbreaking research has helped define how mitochondrial function influences disease, aging, and human health.
The evening also celebrated the extraordinary strength of the mitochondrial community. Sonya Knebel, European Long Drive Champion in the sport of long-drive golf, was honored with the Powerhouse Award for her resilience as both an advocate and a mito warrior living with long COVID, chronic fatigue, and dysautonomia. Her story is a powerful reminder of the perseverance and determination that drives progress in this field.
Together, our growing community of scientists, partners, and supporters continues to advance a shared belief: that cellular energy lies at the foundation of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment across medicine.
Director of the Center for Mitochondrial & Epigenomic Medicine at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
European Long Drive Champion & Mitochondrial Health Advocate
We invite you to revisit the energy, celebration, and purpose of the evening through the photos and videos below. When sharing on social media, please tag @JoinCountdown so we can continue spreading the impact.
