From the Director
At Case Comprehensive Cancer Center (Case CCC), our responsibility is to the people of Northeast Ohio. As stewards of National Cancer Institute (NCI) funding, we are entrusted with advancing research, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that scientific discoveries lead to meaningful improvements in cancer prevention, detection, treatment, survivorship, and ultimately, a reduced cancer burden across our region.
It is a responsibility too great for any one hospital, university, or research laboratory to accomplish alone. Cancer is extraordinarily complex, and solving its greatest challenges requires expertise from many disciplines working toward a common goal.
That is why we exist.
As an NCI-designated consortium comprehensive cancer center, Case CCC brings together the research and clinical expertise of University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute, and Case Western Reserve University to work as one team against cancer.
This collaboration is extraordinary.
As director and a colleague, I have the privilege of seeing the remarkable science taking place across our consortium. I am awed by the discoveries our researchers make, the innovative clinical trials they lead, and the groundbreaking publications and presentations they share with the scientific community. If more people could see the extraordinary work happening here, I believe they would be just as excited. It is a powerful reminder of what is possible when talented people unite around a common purpose.
What’s more, these connections and collaborations accelerate innovation. Promising discoveries move more quickly from the laboratory toward clinical application. Communities benefit from stronger prevention initiatives, expanded access to clinical trials, improved education, and research that reflects the needs and priorities of the four million people living in the 15 Northeast Ohio counties we serve.
What inspires me most is how the spirit of Northeast Ohio is reflected throughout Case CCC. Although I am a relative newcomer, I have quickly come to appreciate this region's resilience, ingenuity, and commitment to tackling difficult challenges together. I see those qualities daily in the curiosity of our researchers, the dedication of our clinicians, the energy of our trainees and students, the expertise of our staff, and the invaluable contributions of our community partners. It is a culture driven by discovery, united by purpose, and focused on making a lasting difference.
Whether you are advancing research, seeking care, supporting a loved one, exploring new collaborations, training for a career in cancer science, or investing in our mission, there is a place for you in this work. Every breakthrough begins with people who choose to ask bold questions, share ideas, and work toward a future where cancer has less impact on every community we serve.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Case CCC and for joining us in advancing progress against cancer.
Gary K. Schwartz, MD, FASCO
Director, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center