Letter from the Director

Dear Friends,

As director of the Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research, I offer my most heartfelt thanks to all of you who support the center. Your gifts allow us to carry on Terry Johnson’s vision of making the most of the impressive resources at K-State to fight cancer through research, as well as training and outreach.

Since I assumed the role of director in 2003, the center has provided record levels of support for faculty scientists and the trainees in their labs—funding we expect will return many dividends over the years in our fight against cancer. Of special note, since the center 's relocation to campus in 2002, we have effectively expanded its outreach efforts, participating in cancer-related collaborations and educating the public about cancer and prevention.

It is an extraordinarily promising and exciting period for those of us in cancer research, and the rate of discovery of new methods of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment continues to escalate impressively. While clinical studies will continue to provide a crucial link in bringing new methods into practical use, ultimately, gains will depend on the basic research that provides the underpinnings of new approaches.

When I speak to civic and service groups, I am often asked why they should support the Johnson Cancer Center when there are so many worthy organizations engaged in the fight against cancer. There are at least four important reasons:
1. The emphasis of our affiliated scientists on basic research fills an important niche not addressed by typical clinical studies or research in the pharmaceutical industry.
2. This is an opportunity to support K-State faculty and students while at the same time enabling the fight against cancer.
3. Extramural funding garnered by our affiliated scientists ($7 million dollars in 2004) is used to support salaries and local purchases, and has a major economic impact for northeast Kansas. Support from the center contributes to their success.
4. All of your cash gifts are directed at supporting cancer research, training, and outreach, and are not used for administrative expenses.

As you review this Web site, you will learn about the programs of the center and the faculty researchers, as well as center activities and history. We thank you for your support and would be very grateful if you would help spread the word about the important activities of the Johnson Cancer Center here at K-State. We are proud of the achievements of our faculty scientists and their contributions to basic cancer research. With your help we will continue to advance the search for cancer solutions.

Rob Denell
University Distinguished Professor and
Director, Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research