News & Events

Community members gathered for a Community Lab Mixer hosted by the University of Illinois Cancer Center and Peer Plus Education and Training Advocates, bringing together local community partners, students and researchers for an afternoon of connection and learning.

The February 18 Lab Mixer reflects the Cancer Center’s commitment to addressing cancer disparities through collaboration and engagement by pairing community dialogue with direct access to active research spaces.

The event included an interactive icebreaker and a presentation on Black History in cancer research by Kathryn Williams, a Community Affairs Specialist in the Cancer Center’s Office of Community Engagement and Health Equity. Her remarks highlighted the contributions of Black pioneers in cancer research, underscored the importance of representation in research, and improving cancer health outcomes for all.

Cancer Center member Paul Grippo, PhD, a Cancer Biology Research Program member, led a discussion on disparities in pancreatic cancer before welcoming attendees into his research lab. During the tour, participants rotated through student-led stations to observe ongoing projects and explore scientific techniques firsthand. Grippo is an Associate Professor in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). The Cancer Center is part of UIC and its academic health system, UI Health.