ChristianaCare's Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute has been elected to membership in the Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI), joining a distinguished network of more than 100 leading academic cancer centers and research institutions across North America.
AACI members include many of the nation's premier cancer centers, which work together to advance cancer research, expand access to clinical trials and accelerate the development of new treatments. Membership is granted through a rigorous review process that evaluates a cancer center's scientific programs, clinical excellence and impact on the communities it serves.
The selection recognizes the Graham Cancer Center's longstanding leadership in cancer care, research, genetics, clinical trials and community outreach, while creating new opportunities to collaborate with some of the most respected cancer institutions in the world.
"This recognition reflects the extraordinary work happening every day across our cancer center," said Thomas Schwaab, M.D., Ph.D., Bank of America Endowed Medical Director of the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute. "Our physicians, nurses, researchers and caregivers are united by a common purpose: giving every patient the best possible chance against cancer. AACI membership strengthens our ability to collaborate with leading institutions, accelerate innovation and bring the latest advances in cancer care to the patients and families we serve."
“One of the greatest benefits of AACI membership is the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with cancer centers across North America,” said AACI Executive Director Jennifer W. Pegher. “With its commitment to community oncology and clinical trials, the Graham Cancer Center brings an innovative approach to cancer research and care. We’re delighted to welcome them as our newest member.”
Strengthening Research and Innovation
The Graham Cancer Center serves patients throughout Delaware and the surrounding region while advancing research that helps shape the future of cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Through AACI, cancer center leaders, researchers and clinicians share knowledge, develop collaborative initiatives and help guide national efforts to address cancer's most pressing challenges.
"This milestone reflects years of dedication by our physicians, scientists and caregivers," said Nicholas J. Petrelli, M.D., director of the Cawley Center for Translational Cancer Research at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute. "Membership in AACI recognizes the strength of the programs we have built and the impact they have on patients. It also creates new opportunities to advance research, expand collaborations and accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into better treatments."
What It Means for Patients
Cancer care is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with breakthroughs in precision medicine, immunotherapy, gene editing and other emerging therapies transforming how cancer is treated.
As a member of AACI, the Graham Cancer Center will have greater opportunities to participate in multi-center research initiatives, contribute to national discussions on cancer policy and innovation, and strengthen connections that help bring promising therapies and clinical trials to patients closer to home.
Building on a Legacy of Excellence
For decades, the Graham Cancer Center has been recognized nationally for its comprehensive approach to cancer care, integrating research, clinical trials, genetic counseling, prevention programs, physician education and community outreach.
Membership in AACI marks an important milestone in the cancer center's continued growth and reinforces its commitment to delivering world-class cancer care while advancing discoveries that improve and save lives.
