Celebrating a Milestone in Cancer Treatment
The Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is excited to celebrate its 40th anniversary by recognizing the extraordinary contributions made to the field of cancer immunotherapy. This significant occasion serves not only as a reflection of the past but also as a beacon of hope for the future of cancer treatment. The SITC takes pride in honoring exceptional individuals and institutions who have notably advanced the world of immuno-oncology.
A Legacy of Advancement
Since its establishment in 1984, the SITC has been dedicated to advancing immunotherapy through comprehensive education, groundbreaking research, and collaboration among professionals in the field. The organization has pioneered numerous initiatives that facilitate scientific understanding and clinical application of immunotherapies, which play an essential role in improving patient outcomes.
Recognizing Leaders in the Field
As part of its anniversary celebrations, SITC has introduced special Anniversary Awards. These awards highlight the achievements and dedication of those who have significantly influenced cancer immunotherapy. Honorees include pioneers and visionaries who have displayed relentless commitment to changing the landscape of cancer care. The awards are a tribute to the impactful contributions that have led to lifesaving treatments for patients globally.
Announcing the Award Recipients
This year’s recipients of the 40th Anniversary Awards exemplify the highest standards of dedication and innovation:
Innovation Award
Peter Marks, MD, PhD
Martin "Mac" Cheever Distinguished Service Awards
Olivera Finn, PhD, FAIO (University of Pittsburgh)
John M. Kirkwood, MD (UPMC Hillman Cancer Center)
Team Science Award
University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center
Mark Albertini, MD
Christian M. Capitini, MD
Douglas G. McNeel, MD, PhD
Zachary Morris, MD, PhD
Rebecca Richards, MD, PhD
Quaovi Sodji, MD, PhD
Paul M. Sondel, MD, PhD
Collaboration Award
Andres Salazar, MD (Oncovir, Inc.)
International Neoadjuvant Melanoma Consortium (INMC)
Elizabeth Burton, PhD, MBA (The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center)
Rodabe Amaria, MD (The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center)
Paolo Ascierto, MD (Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale)
Christian U. Blank, MD (The Netherlands Cancer Institute)
Georgina V. Long, AO (The Melanoma Institute of Australia)
Alexander M. Menzies, FRACP, PhD (The Melanoma Institute of Australia)
Richard Scolyer, AO (The Melanoma Institute of Australia)
Hussein Tawbi, MD, PhD (The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center)
Michael Tetzlaff, MD, PhD (University of California San Francisco)
Alex van Akkooi, MD, PhD, FRACS (The Melanoma Institute of Australia)
Jennifer Wargo, MD (The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center)
Champion of SITC Awards
Paolo Antonio Ascierto, MD (Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale)
Michael B. Atkins, MD, FAIO (Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center)
Tullia C. Bruno, PhD (University of Pittsburgh)
Lisa H. Butterfield, PhD (Merck Research Labs)
Christian M. Capitini, MD (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
Alessandra Cesano, MD PhD (Summit Tx)
Daniel S. Chen, MD, PhD (Synthetic Design Lab, Inc.)
Mary L. 'Nora' Disis, MD, FACP (University of Washington)
Robert L. Ferris, MD PhD (University of North Carolina)
Henry Diego Patty Flores, PhD (CMNYR El ALTO ABEN)
Bernard A. Fox, PhD (Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Cancer Institute)
Jerome Galon, PhD (INSERM)
Thomas F. Gajewski, MD, PhD, FAIO (University of Chicago)
James L. Gulley, MD, PhD, FACP (National Cancer Institute)
Kristen M. Hege, MD (Board Member, Mersana, Adaptimmune, Kelonia, KSQ and EvolveImmune)
F. Stephen Hodi, MD (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute)
Patrick Hwu, MD (Moffitt Cancer Center)
Howard L. Kaufman, MD, FACS (Ankyra Therapeutics/Massachusetts General Hospital)
Samir N. Khleif, MD (Georgiamune, LLC)
John M. Kirkwood, MD (UPMC Hillman Cancer Center)
Michael T. Lotze, MD, FACS (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center)
Jason J. Luke, MD, FACP, FASCO (Strand Therapeutics)
Cristina Maccalli, PhD (Sidra Medicine)
Kim A. Margolin, MD (St. John's Cancer Institute)
Francesco Marincola, MD (Sonata Therapeutics)
Marcela V. Maus, MD, PhD (Massachusetts General Hospital)
Douglas G. McNeel, MD, PhD (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
Chrystal M. Paulos, PhD (Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University)
William L. Redmond, PhD (Earle A. Chiles Research Institute)
Pedro J. Romero, MD (Novigenix)
Kimberly A. Shafer-Weaver, PhD, MBA (Merck & Co.)
Craig L. Slingluff Jr., MD (University of Virginia School of Medicine)
Ryan J. Sullivan, MD (Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital)
Mario Sznol, MD (Yale University Department of Medical Oncology: Yale Cancer Center)
Walter J. Urba, MD, PhD (Earle A. Chiles Research Institute)
Jon M. Wigginton, MD (Bright Peak Therapeutics)
Jedd D. Wolchok, MD, PhD, FAIO (Weill Cornell Medicine)
Looking Ahead: The Future of Immunotherapy
The recipients of these prestigious awards will be recognized during SITC's 40th Anniversary Annual Meeting, scheduled for Nov. 5-9, 2025. This gathering at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center promises to be a remarkable event celebrating innovation and collaboration in the field of cancer immunotherapy.
About SITC
Established in 1984, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is a nonprofit organization consisting of medical professionals devoted to enhancing cancer patient outcomes by advancing cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology. SITC’s members include prominent basic and translational scientists, healthcare professionals, government officials, and industry experts. Through its educational programs and collaborative efforts, SITC aims to make the word 'cure' a tangible reality for cancer patients worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer?
The Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing cancer immunotherapy and improving patient outcomes.
Who received the Innovation Award in 2025?
Peter Marks, MD, PhD, received the Innovation Award at the SITC's 40th Anniversary event.
When will the 40th Anniversary Annual Meeting take place?
The annual meeting is scheduled for Nov. 5-9, 2025, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.
What is the vision of SITC for the future?
SITC aims to enhance patient outcomes and ultimately make immunotherapy cures a standard reality for cancer patients everywhere.
How has SITC contributed to the field of immunotherapy?
SITC fosters scientific exchange and collaboration, providing education and resources to advance the field of cancer immunotherapy.
