As one of the leading cancer centers in the nation, we are at the forefront of translating the most promising scientific advances into life-saving treatments. Our researchers focus on cancers that disproportionately affect New Mexicans and develop innovative approaches for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center patients have access to clinical trials that are based on the latest scientific research and are a critical differentiator of cancer care.

Philanthropic investment supports:

• Pilot grants that launch innovative research ideas

• Recruitment of leading scientists and laboratory start-up needs

• Advanced technologies, equipment, and shared research resources

• Clinical trials infrastructure and investigator-initiated studies

• Research initiatives spanning basic, translational, population-based, and clinical science

Donors become partners in discovery and help bring tomorrow’s cures to today’s patients.

$14.5 million of philanthropic funding is needed for this important work.

Patients at UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center receive comprehensive cancer care in one location, including multidisciplinary treatment planning, access to novel clinical trials, and world-class personalized cancer care. Additionally, UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center provides survivorship services to ensure seamless care as more individuals survive the disease.

Priority investments include:

• Expansion of access and promotion of awareness of clinical trials at UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.

• State-of-the art treatment technologies, such as Radiation Linear Accelerators (LINACS) and MRI LINAC (one of 101 in the world at UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center).

• Facilities and technologies for Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Based Therapy program.

• Survivorship services for patients across urban and rural communities

• Patient and Family Support Services, including transportation, lodging, meals, and emotional support

• Expanded access to cancer care throughout New Mexico

As part of New Mexico’s healthcare safety net, we serve patients regardless of their ability to pay.

$10 million of philanthropic funding is needed to fulfill these important initiatives.

Training and developing the next generation of cancer researchers, clinicians, and leaders is central to our mission. These programs span the education continuum from middle school to junior faculty.

Funding priorities include:

Fellowship programs.

• Cancer fellowships and postdoctoral programs

• Training opportunities in population and data science

• Student internships in STEM and workforce development initiatives

• A new program supporting the transition from postdoctoral training to faculty appointments.

• Continuing education opportunities for the cancer care workforce.

These investments strengthen the future of cancer care and research throughout New Mexico.

$7 million of philanthropic funding is needed to fulfill these important initiatives.

New Mexico’s diverse population faces unique cancer challenges influenced by geographic, environmental, social, and economic factors. Reducing the burden of cancer in New Mexico requires research to discover and overcome the disproportionate patterns of cancer incidence and mortality.

Through our Cancer Control and Population Sciences Research Program and Community Outreach and Engagement Office, we work to improve prevention, screening, treatment, survivorship, and health equity statewide.

The COE Office works with our Community Advisory Board, Tribal Advisory Committee. and other unique partners to address the needs of all peoples living throughout New Mexico. Current needs include: 1) cancer screening and timely patient navigation for screen-positive tests; 2) environmental exposure to cancer; 3) the impact of financial toxicity of cancer care, particularly for rural populations; 4) growing the cancer workforce, which can conduct research and provide cancer care to support all New Mexicans.

Support is needed for:

• Community education and cancer screening initiatives

• Mobile outreach services

• Community Outreach and Engagement programs

• Bilingual and culturally appropriate patient navigation services for access to screening, treatment, and financial assistance resources

• Research addressing environmental exposures, financial toxicity, and cancer disparities

Together, these initiatives bring lifesaving resources to communities across New Mexico.

$4.5 million in philanthropic funding is needed to provide this essential support.

To continue to deliver on our mission to provide world-class cancer care, access to clinical trials, carry out cutting edge research, and train the cancer workforce and cancer leaders of tomorrowm UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center must expand its facilities and infrastructure.

Additional space and infrastructure will support:

• Growth in cancer research programs

• Expansion of clinical services

• Workforce training and education initiatives

• Recruitment of top scientific and clinical talent

• Continued success as an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

$5 million of philanthropic funding is required to realize this vision.

Endowed chairs and professorships are among the highest honors in academic medicine and are essential for recruiting and retaining exceptional leaders in research and clinical care.

Philanthropic support for endowed positions enables UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center to attract world-class cancer experts, accelerate innovation, and expand patient access to leading-edge care.

$4 million of philanthropic funding is needed to fulfill this continuing priority.