Director's Cut

Director's message

As we approach the close of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the tremendous progress we’ve made together at the Cancer Center and Research Institute. This has been a year of growth, discovery and meaningful impact that would not have been possible without the dedication of our team members and supporters who work every day to improve the lives of those we serve.

Intramural funding nears $350,000

Grants recently funded nine research projects relating to lung, pancreatic, T-cell lymphoma, and prostate and ovarian cancers.

Dr. Manju George featured in Cancer Today

As a researcher and a rectal cancer survivor, she brings a powerful dual perspective to her work in patient advocacy, cancer education and research.

CCRI named Optum Center of Excellence

The Cancer Center and Research Institute at the University of Mississippi Medical Center is now an Optum Center of Excellence for Cellular Immunotherapy and Gene Therapy, an achievement that recognizes UMMC for meeting rigorous standards in delivering advanced CAR T-cell therapy and exceptional patient care.

Susan Roberts is Employee of the Month

Communication skills, organization and a strong work ethic are a few of the reasons colleagues cited in nominating her for the CCRI honor.

The ACT Center team poses for a photo, from left, [front row] Dr. Jonathan Hontzas, director; Sharon Terry, tobacco treatment specialist; Kelli Grant, manager of research operations; Brittany Tichenor, tobacco treatment specialist; Erica Cameron, lung cancer screening coordinator; Latoya Scott, scheduler; Stacy Wilson, medical office assistant; Leslie Musshafen, associate director of administration for the Cancer Center & Research Institute; [back row] Langston Moore, project manager for the Cancer Center & Research Institute; Kathy Banks, administrative assistant; and Jay Thompson, project manager.

ACT Center holds pinning ceremony honoring tobacco treatment graduates

The ACT Center for Tobacco Treatment, Education and Research recently gathered at the Jackson Medical Mall to recognize individuals who have successfully completed the treatment program, honoring their commitment to quitting.

Recent publications

Published studies by CCRI members include research into anti-glioblastoma drug candidates and the impact of race on clinical cholangiocarcinoma outcomes.

Shelby Joins Division of Hematology and Oncology

CCRI is excited to welcome Andrew D. Shelby as the new business administrator for the Division of Hematology and Oncology. He brings more than five years of leadership experience in health care education and operations, including roles as EMS chairperson and paramedic program director.

Holiday happenings

The Cancer Center and Research Institute, the Division of Hematology and Oncology and the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at UMMC celebrated the season with parties on campus and around the Jackson metro area. Click "Read More" to enjoy the holiday slideshow.

December 2025