Recognizing the growing need to nurture the next generation of cancer researchers, Aflac has expanded its generous commitment to the American Association for Cancer Research by sponsoring the new AACR-Aflac Career Development Award for Pediatric Cancer Research, in addition to renewing its support for the AACR Associate Member Council and the AACR-Aflac Scholar-in-Training Awards, now in their 10th year.
At the heart of Aflac's corporate mission and philanthropy is support for pediatric cancer. The AACR-Aflac Career Development Award for Pediatric Cancer speaks to this mission by providing four young investigators with research funding as they seek to establish a name for themselves in the field of pediatric cancer research.
Likewise, the Scholar-in-Training Awards enhance the education of early-career scientists by providing financial support to attend AACR Annual Meetings. Attended by more than 17,000 scientists from around the globe, the AACR Annual Meeting enables young investigators to present research, learn from various educational sessions and symposia, and take advantage of mentorship and networking opportunities.
“We are so grateful to Aflac for their continued support of promising young cancer researchers,” said AACR Chief Executive Officer Margaret Foti, Ph.D., M.D. (h.c.). “Not only do these awards provide a vital foundation for those just starting out in their careers, but they also help retain in cancer research some of the brightest scientists who might otherwise pursue careers in other areas of science.”
During a year of noteworthy anniversaries, Aflac increased their support in 2007 to mark its decade-long partnership with AACR, as well as the AACR Centennial. Commemorating 100 years of progress in cancer research, in 2007 the AACR honors past achievements and looks to foster future advancements in the fight against cancer.
“Providing scholarship and training awards toward cancer treatment and research is a part of Aflac's commitment to help stamp out the disease,” said Buffy Swinehart, Aflac's Manager of Philanthropy and Cause Related Marketing. “AACR highlights the best and brightest individuals to help make this possible and we are delighted to continue honoring those scientists who have committed their works to this great effort.”