Continuing an esteemed family legacy of cancer science is no small feat—but Gary Schwartz, MD, carries on with aplomb. Case CCC's Director for two years, three months, and seven days (but who's counting), he was appointed the inaugural Peter and Laurie Weinberger Professorship in Cancer Research this week.
Schwartz's passion for cancer research was ignited early at home. Both parents were involved in cancer research, and his father pioneered breakthrough work using human tumor tissue to detect prostate cancer proteins.
After championing precision medicine approaches and founding the Melanoma and Sarcoma Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering, Schwartz transitioned to Chief of Hematology & Oncology and Deputy Director of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at Columbia University.
And, in April 2023, he arrived in Cleveland to take the reins of Case CCC. Under his short tenure as leader, the organization has earned top‑tier rankings for its NCI Cancer Center Support Grant review, launched the “CURE” Rare Cancer Initiative, pioneered a health‑and‑wellness series in East Cleveland, and initiated innovative skin cancer awareness campaigns throughout Cuyahoga and Lorain counties. Further, he is the first physician with practicing privileges at both the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals.
The Peter and Laurie Weinberger Professorship recognizes Schwartz’s unwavering dedication to translating scientific discovery into life‑saving treatments and cultivating the next generation of oncology leaders. Likewise, it marks a long and proud Weinberger family tradition of supporting CWRU not only as successful medical and law school graduates, but also as active advocates and philanthropists.
As Schwartz steps into this role, we celebrate his extraordinary journey—from childhood intrigue brought on by his parents’ research to his current impact as a clinician, scientist, mentor, and leader at the forefront of cancer breakthroughs.