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City of Hope, one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S., announced John Surane, executive vice president and chief growth officer at Ace Hardware, as the 2026 Spirit of Life Award recipient for the National Hardware Homebuilding Industry fundraising group.
The Spirit of Life Award is City of Hope’s most prestigious philanthropic honor, presented annually to visionary leaders who are shaping the future through their contributions to society, medicine and human welfare. This award celebrates individuals who not only embody the ideals of service, compassion and dedication but also drive innovation and progress that pave the way for a healthier, more hopeful future. With 35 years in the hardware and home improvement industry, Surane is known for forging trusted relationships across retailers, suppliers and partners, as well as his long-standing support of the Ace Foundation and its life-saving work with Children’s Miracle Network.
“For decades, the hardware and homebuilding community has shown what’s possible when people come together to help others,” says Joe Watterson, vice president of corporate philanthropy at City of Hope. “John brings that spirit of helping to this campaign in a powerful way—expanding City of Hope’s reach and ensuring more patients and families receive the lifesaving cancer care and support they urgently need.”
Since joining Ace in 2009, Surane has contributed to the company’s growth from $3 billion to nearly $10 billion in wholesale revenue, expanded Ace’s global network to more than 6,000 stores and helped drive more than $23 billion in
systemwide retail sales.
“It’s a unique and special moment when industry competitors and leading brands come together around a shared mission to confront the devastating impact of cancer,” Surane says. “I’m deeply honored to receive the Spirit of Life Award, and even more humbled by the responsibility to carry forward the extraordinary philanthropic legacy built by the leaders who came before me. Together, we have the opportunity to push this mission forward and make a meaningful difference for the patients and families who are counting on us.”
