In addition to their 10-week mentored summer research program, the 2024 Diversity in Cancer Research (DICR) students at the University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, participated in two Saturday events focused on cancer and literacy.
DICR undergraduate students from the three universities volunteered at the American Cancer Society (ACS) Walk and Roll fundraiser on June 8. They set up and staffed a water station halfway to the 5K finish line on the lakefront trail near Arvey Field in Grant Park. The volunteers prepared about 600 cups of water, passed them out to thirsty participants and cleaned up afterward. The Walk and Roll is the longest-running cancer fundraiser in Illinois, now in its 53rd year. Participants have the option to do a 5K walk or run, 10K skate or 15K bike ride.
Later in June, the students came together with staff from the three universities to complete the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce 2024 Dragon Boat Race For Literacy on June 22. The Dragon Boat Race for Literacy, which began in 2000, is a cherished annual event. Families from across the city and suburbs gather to enjoy spirited competition and cultural festivities, all in support of promoting literacy and education.
The DICR summer research program wraps up in August with a combined research symposium. Through funding from the American Cancer Society, DICR trains and mentors underrepresented minority undergraduate students interested in careers focusing on cancer research and other health professions. Watch this video to learn more. The program ends August 9.
About DICR
UI DICR is one of five summer research programs at the Cancer Center. Summer research programs are central to the Cancer Center mission through its Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) team. The goal of these programs is to build a pipeline of researchers and trainees who will continue to address the needs of diverse patient populations. More than 30 Cancer Center members are helping to guide students through their programs.