Georgia Distinguished Cancer Scholars Summit a Success

5/26/2022, Georgia CORE

On May 9, Georgia’s Distinguished Cancer Scholars gathered for the first time since the program was discontinued more than a decade ago. Because its legacy lives on in those scholars who have stayed in Georgia, Georgia CORE’s leadership team thought it would be beneficial to host a summit to both celebrate its impact and explore a possible return of the program. 

The one day, in-person event featured healthcare leaders who discussed the state of cancer care, cancer control, and cancer research in Georgia. The presentation was followed by two panels of Distinguished Cancer Scholars who offered their perspectives on our state’s position and promise in cancer research.

There were about 150 scholars named as Distinguished Cancer Scholars from 2001 to 2010, of which about 80 have stayed in Georgia. The purpose was to recruit and retain the country’s best cancer minds so the state would be a leader in cancer research and treatment, and that Georgians would not have to leave the state for the best in cancer care. 

“Today, the original vision has become true,” said Andrew Pippas, MD, Chair, Georgia CORE Board of Directors and Director of Medical Oncology, Piedmont Healthcare. “Four out of five Georgians currently have access to cancer clinical trials throughout the state. Research universities and medical centers are continuing to fund and support our cancer scholars and their colleagues, who are continually bringing forth new discoveries and technologies that are directly impacting patients.”

To view more photos from the event, please visit our Event Photo Library.