The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit raised more than $2.5 million during its recent annual dinner, making the event the most successful event ever in the institute's history.

In addition to Chevrolet, the dinner's host sponsor, the $773 million Credit Union ONE in Ferndale, Mich., were among the more than 20 other key sponsors that contributed to raising funds for cancer research.

This year's event helps support Karmanos' new clinical core laboratory, a 4,200-square-foot renovated area in the Karmanos Cancer Center dedicated to laboratory services for Karmanos' patients, according to officials.

This improvement will mean shorter wait times for patients needing blood test results prior to receiving their cancer treatment, enhancing the patient's experience while promoting efficiencies. The lab, set to open in October 2013, will generate approximately 34 new jobs, including medical technologists and laboratory assistants. It will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

More than 550 guests attended the elegant gala held April 20 at the General Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center.

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States, according to officials. The institute cares for nearly 6,000 new patients annually on a budget of $265 million and conducts more than 700 cancer-specific scientific investigation programs and clinical trials.

Working with 1,000 staff including nearly 300 physicians and researchers on faculty at the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, the institute said it is supported by thousands of volunteers and financial donors.