Case Comprehensive Cancer Center (Case CCC) has been recognized by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) with a merit award of outstanding 19 months after transitioning to a new director.
The NCI site visit committee noted institutional commitment, leadership, exceptional efforts in cancer research, training, and education, its strategy to nurture and train cancer researchers and physician-scientists reflecting the needs and demographics of its catchment area, high quality of basic and translational science across programs and shared resources, and the synergism of consortium members as strengths that make Case CCC “well positioned for a continued positive trajectory.”
According to Case Western Reserve University President Eric W. Kaler, “The collaborative efforts of our partnering institutions at Case CCC have led to improved outcomes for people whose lives are affected by cancer—around the country and, importantly, right here in Northeast Ohio.” He added, “We are grateful for the steady and strong leadership of the Center’s director Gary Schwartz, and his commitment to producing high-quality research and programming that builds upon Case CCC’s national reputation for excellence.”
Further, NCI’s ranking allows Case CCC to apply for a prestigious merit extension for the second consecutive renewal period. In 2022, Case CCC was the first NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center ever awarded a merit extension.
As an NCI-designated comprehensive consortium cancer center, Case CCC ranks in the top 4% of cancer centers in the nation, uniting the efforts of Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals, and the Cleveland Clinic to conduct state-of-the-art cancer research, foster the next generation of cancer researchers through innovative training and education programs, and support community outreach and engagement initiatives to reduce the cancer burden of four million people living in its 15-county catchment area.
“We are honored to have achieved this recognition from the NCI. It reflects the unwavering commitment of Case CCC members and consortia partners to enhancing cancer care, advancing the science of cancer treatment and prevention through clinical trials, and searching for innovative therapies for the people in the communities we serve and beyond,” said Case CCC Director Gary Schwartz, MD, FASCO, Gertrude Donnelly Hess MD Professor in Oncology Research, Vice Dean for Oncology, CWRU School of Medicine.
University Hospitals CEO Cliff A. Megerian, MD, FACS, and the Jane and Henry Meyer Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair notes, “This achievement is not only a testament to the outstanding collaboration among our institutions that prioritize caring for our communities but demonstrates the scientific impact of the Case CCC. Together, we are saving lives, advancing medical discovery, and strengthening Northeast Ohio as a medical hub of innovation.”
"This recognition from the NCI underscores the exceptional teamwork and scientific innovation happening across the Case CCC,” said Tom Mihaljevic, MD, Cleveland Clinic CEO and President and holder of the Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair. "Through our multi-institutional collaboration, we are dedicated to advancing cancer research while ensuring patients receive outstanding care and support. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to improving cancer treatment and outcomes, bringing new hope to patients in our communities and beyond."