News

Government relations professionals from AACI cancer centers and partner organizations gathered in Washington, DC, for timely discussions that focused on the federal landscape for cancer research, including National Institutes of Health (NIH) priorities, appropriations, and ongoing policy developments.

UMR Leadership Roundtable 

On March 24, AACI leadership participated in a United for Medical Research (UMR) roundtable with NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, alongside leaders from across the biomedical research and advocacy community. 

The discussion provided an opportunity for a candid, off-the-record exchange on the current state of the NIH and the broader research ecosystem. Dr. Bhattacharya reflected on his first year as director and shared priorities for the agency moving forward, as well as his perspective on broader challenges and opportunities facing the research community. 

Participants discussed the importance of continued engagement between NIH and external stakeholders, as well as the shared goal of ensuring a strong and sustainable future for biomedical research through robust federal investment and effective policy implementation. 

AACI Executive Director Jennifer W. Pegher (far left) participated in a roundtable with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (center) and other leaders

AACI Spring Government Relations Forum 

The following day, AACI hosted its Spring Government Relations Forum. The forum featured an update from the National Cancer Institute’s Office of Government and Congressional Relations, which provided insight into ongoing engagement with Congress and considerations for the cancer research community in the current funding and policy environment. 

Jessica McNiece, health policy director for Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), offered a congressional perspective on appropriations and broader health policy priorities, highlighting key dynamics shaping the federal funding landscape. 

Mark Vieth, representing the Defense Health Research Consortium, provided an overview of the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), including its role within the federal research portfolio and the importance of continued advocacy to sustain and strengthen the program following increased FY 2026 funding.
 
The forum also featured a powerful patient advocate perspective from Elisabeth Drabkin, who shared her experience navigating a rare cancer diagnosis and reinforced the critical importance of sustained investment in cancer research, innovation, and patient-centered care.
 
The meeting concluded with updates from AACI sustaining members and an open discussion among participants on advocacy priorities and upcoming activities, reinforcing the importance of coordinated engagement across the cancer research community.

Looking Ahead: 2026 AACI/AACR Hill Day

These discussions highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between federal agencies, Congress, and the cancer research community. As the policy and funding landscape continues to evolve, AACI remains committed to advancing advocacy efforts that support cancer centers and the patients they serve. 

Cancer center leaders, researchers, clinicians, and advocates will have opportunities to engage directly with policymakers and reinforce the need for strong, sustained federal investment in cancer research during the 2026 AACI/AACR Hill Day, which will take place on Thursday, May 14 in Washington, DC. 

Register for the 2026 AACI/AACR Hill Day