Dear Friends,

It is an exciting time for Moffitt Cancer Center. On July 31, 2023, we officially opened our new Moffitt McKinley Hospital. Construction of the inpatient surgical hospital was managed by Barr & Barr Inc. and Horus Construction Services, founded by longtime George Edgecomb supporter Jonathan Graham. Through their mentorship program, Horus Academy, diverse and minority-owned businesses were able to compete with multimillion-dollar corporations on bidding opportunities.

As Moffitt continues its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the cancer center committed contracts of approximately $17 million to Black-owned businesses. Saving lives and closing the gap on cancer health disparities also includes investing in the communities we serve, and leads to better health outcomes for employees and their families, all enabled through economic growth.

In this issue of our newsletter, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Kosj Yamoah’s new role as chair of Moffitt’s Radiation Oncology department. In his new position, Yamoah is focused on several goals to further propel the department. These include the integration of cutting-edge technologies for precision treatment, fostering cross-departmental collaboration and partnerships and establishing Moffitt as a worldwide pioneer in the field of Radiation Oncology.

We’re excited to also highlight a new scholarship program that trains underrepresented minority undergraduate students for the medical field. Funded by the American Cancer Society, the ENCOURAGE program allows five college students to gain hands on experience in the world of cancer research at Moffitt.

You will also find stories on Moffitt’s Health Equity Train-the-Trainer program, the Kappa Alpha Psi Konclave and more!

These are just a few examples of how our community has rallied together to help drive change. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved, contact us on the George Edgecomb Society page or call the Moffitt Foundation directly at (813) 745-4017.

Thank you for supporting the George Edgecomb Society!

Regards,

Dr. Patrick Hwu