More than 100 of the UF Health Cancer Center’s members, as well as community partners, gathered on Oct. 14 for a daylong retreat that provided opportunities to hear center updates, learn about the latest cancer research across disciplines, set goals to shape its strategic plan, and network with colleagues.
The retreat, held at the Hilton UF Conference Center, included sessions on community outreach and engagement, the UF translational research program, and spotlights on research projects in each of the center’s four research programs. Researchers discussed their clinical research, ranging from innovative smoking interventions and cooperative trials to spare patients unneeded effects of treatment. Other sessions covered updates on education programs, Shared Resources, and artificial intelligence applications.
Jonathan D. Licht, M.D., director of the Cancer Center, presented updates on the strategic plan, which aims to position the center to renew its designation from the National Cancer Institute in 2027 and obtain comprehensive designation in 2031. To reach those goals, members are focused on deepening the impact of cancer research discoveries through translating and applying them to the area the center serves in North Central Florida and beyond.
Special thank you to all of our presenters and planning committee for making the retreat a meaningful and productive day!
