​Attendees gathered around the theme 'Connecting Leaders: Strategies for Change.'​​

The American Cancer Society, in partnership with the Cancer Center DEI Network and the Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI), hosted the second annual ACS Cancer Center DEI Summit on Oct. 19 - 20, in Chicago, IL. The event brought together more than 200 DEI leaders – doubling last year’s attendance – from cancer centers across the country, creating a space for collaboration, learning, and action. 

2024 Focus: Plan to Enhance Diversity

Building on the success of last year’s summit, this year’s focus was to support cancer centers in implementing the Plan to Enhance Diversity (PED) a vital part of their Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG). Leaders and experts gathered to discuss how the PED is vital for building a more diverse oncology workforce and fostering an inclusive cancer care environment.

Sessions explored critical topics such as:

• The collaborative work between PED, Community Outreach and Engagement (COE), and Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC).
• Navigating recent policy changes that impact DEI efforts within cancer centers.
• Strategies for leveraging institutional commitment to secure resources for DEI initiatives.

Featured Leaders Share Insights and Encouragement

One of the event's highlights was a stirring welcome address to kick off the Summit by ACS Board Member and AACI President Dr. Rob Winn, whose powerful message centered on the importance of sustained commitment to DEI in the oncology field. His words set the tone for the summit, encouraging participants to continue driving efforts to advance cancer care equity.

On the second day, JC Cantu, associate chief of staff, DEI, presented on two ACS initiatives: the Health Equity Ambassador (HEA) Program and the VOICES of Black Women Initiative. JC’s presentation emphasized how these two programs are driving grassroots-level change and amplifying the voices of diverse and multicultural communities to further cancer care equity and address cancer disparities.  

Dr. Ellie Daniels, senior vice president, Center for Diversity Research, delivered a compelling presentation on the Center for Diversity in Cancer Research Training, showcasing ACS’s commitment to nurturing a pipeline of diverse cancer researchers and leaders.

Inspiring Future Action 

In addition to hearing from dynamic speakers, attendees engaged in interactive breakout sessions and brainstorming exercises aimed at leveraging institutional support and addressing systemic challenges.

As we look to the future, and begin to plan the 2025 Summit, we will continue the important work of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion across cancer centers nationwide, which is key to ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.