Shivaani Kummar to receive prestigious NCI Director’s Award
Shivaani Kummar, M.D., FACP, OHSU Knight Cancer Institute interim chief executive, and Margaret and Lester DeArmond University Chair of Molecular Oncology in the Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, OHSU School of Medicine, has been honored with the prestigious 2024 National Cancer Institute Director’s Award.
The award is one of the NCI’s highest accolades and is bestowed on individuals or teams who have made significant contributions to furthering the NCI’s mission and demonstrated excellence, innovation, impact and commitment throughout their organization.
Kummar’s pivotal role as the principal investigator in an investigator-initiated trial at NCI laid the groundwork for an international randomized clinical trial aimed at treating a rare tumor known as desmoid, or aggressive fibromatosis. This groundbreaking work ultimately led to the FDA's approval of Nirogacestat, the first drug ever authorized for the treatment of this rare condition.
“Developing treatments for rare tumors is particularly challenging,” Kummar said. “It necessitates strong collaboration among clinicians, researchers, patient advocacy groups, pharmaceutical companies and the government, as clearly demonstrated by the development of Nirogacestat.”
Share link: https://news.ohsu.edu/2025/07/21/accolades-awards-honors-and-appointments-july-6911981#Kummar
Tucker Cary recognized with Patriot Award for supporting National Guard employees
In a heartfelt ceremony, Tucker Cary, a supervisor in the Food and Nutrition Services department, was honored with the esteemed Patriot Award for his support of National Guard and Reserve employees. The nomination came from Hassan Kaboyo, a meal service associate who has served on the OHSU team for 15 years.
"I think the recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the values of service, commitment and support- not just to our country but to the people who sacrifice for it every day," Cary said.
The Patriot Award is designed to recognize supervisors and leaders who go above and beyond in providing exceptional support to their military employees. Cary was presented with a Department of Defense Certificate of Appreciation and a commemorative lapel pin, acknowledging his commitment to fostering a supportive work environment for those who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.
Share link: https://news.ohsu.edu/2025/07/21/accolades-awards-honors-and-appointments-july-6911981#Cary
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