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Paul J. Grippo, PhD
Evaluating Kras oncogene addiction in pancreatic precancer and cancer Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
In 1995, I was introduced to pancreatic cancer by my academic advisor and mentor, Dr. Eric Sandgren, while doing graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin. At the time, Dr. Sandgren was one of only a handful of researchers to have a NIH/NCI grant focused on pancreatic cancer research, and nearly all of my
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laboratory work was directed on developing models of pancreatic cancer and using existing ones to understand disease development. I became passionate about my research as I learned about this disease, its late detection, and poor prognosis. PanCAN has also made its mark in my career from its earliest beginnings, and especially since 2002, where my volunteering in a TeamHope Affiliate (Northern Illinois) has brought me eye to eye with patients and their dedicated, driven families and friends. These people (Valerie, Angie, Kim, Linda, Terry, Ed, and Marvin) have touched me the most and encouraged me to keep pushing forward with my research, if not for the present, at least for the next generation. To them and to God, I am truly grateful.
The funds that accompany this award will be used to support a project that will determine if a common genetic mutation in pancreatic cancer (in a gene called Kras) is required for the development and maintenance of both early precancerous lesions (PanINs) and cancer. Findings from this project will help identify the cell types that can give rise to pancreatic cancer and if therapies that target mutations in Kras will be effective at the level of precancer and cancer. By trusting me with this award, PanCAN provides the confidence for me to move forward, the funds with which to begin those endeavors, and the history of success to serve as a template.
Nancy Daly Riordan PanCAN-AACR Career Development Award for Pancreatic Cancer Research |
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Marcia Whittington
Chief Executive Officer - Gilda’s Club
Over the past 16 years Marcia has focused on development, fundraising and leadership in our community. This includes her current role as CEO of Gilda’s Club Madison Wisconsin, serving for six years as the Vice President of HospiceCare’s Foundation, and working as the Development Director for Meriter Health Services Foundation. She began her non-profit experience with the University of Wisconsin Foundation shortly after college. |
Currently Marcia is engaged in completing the final stages of Gilda’s Club’s $4.1 million fundraising campaign and forming a solid development department for the organization. Her experience also includes leading the successful $20 million capital campaign to build the Ellen and Peter Johnson HospiceCare Residence, along with overseeing all annual giving, major gifts and planned giving.
Marcia resides in Waunakee with her husband, Tony, and her two daughters. She is active in her church and her children’s school. She is a member of Associated Fundraising Professionals, TEMPO, Meeting Professionals International, The Wisconsin Cancer Council and is a current board member of The Business Forum and a past board member of the Goodman Atwood Community Center. |
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