Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and Utah Valley University have announced a partnership called the Huntsman Cancer Institute-Utah Valley University Health Collaborative. The collaborative is supported by a $1 million donation from Huntsman.
“This visionary program marks a significant step towards revolutionizing health and science education while bolstering cancer research and care,” the Huntsman Cancer Institute said in a release.
The HCI–UVU Health Collaborative will provide 50 health- and science-based learning opportunities annually, empowering students to prepare for the future workforce in the fields of research and medical care, collaborative leaders said. “This initiative plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of cancer researchers and healthcare providers, fostering innovation and excellence in eradicating cancer from the face of the Earth.”
“In our pursuit of a cancer-free frontier, this partnership marks a significant stride forward,” said Brad Cairns, chief academic officer of Huntsman Cancer Institute, Jon M. Huntsman Presidential Endowed Chair in Cancer Research, and professor and chair of the Department of Oncological Sciences at the Uof U. “Our enthusiasm and desire to make an impact on cancer knows no bounds as we extend our reach to establish our next comprehensive cancer center in Vineyard.”
Huntsman Cancer Institute announced plans for a second comprehensive cancer center in Utah County last June. It will be in Vineyard in Utah County in the heart of Utah’s tech hub.
“We firmly believe in fostering a collaborative spirit to craft solutions to educate students and better serve the healthcare needs of all Utahns,” said U0fU President Taylor Randall. “Our commitment to the HCI-UVU Health Collaborative lies in the creative alliance of our efforts to create a path for the next wave of aspiring innovators, dedicated healthcare professionals and scientists.”
“With the explosive growth coming to Utah County over the next three decades, the need for nurses, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, mental health professionals and other health and wellness workers is significant,” said UVU President Astrid Tuminez. “This HCI-UVU Health Collaborative will provide a great opportunity for our students and aligns with the university’s model of engaged learning, which continues to set UVU apart.”
The HCI-UVU Health Collaborative will begin offering student training opportunities in January 2024.