In 1907, 11 visionary founders gathered in Washington, D.C. and instituted the American Association for Cancer Research “to further the investigation and spread the knowledge of cancer.”
From those 11 founders 115 years ago to our more than 58,000 members today, the AACR has been at the forefront of every major discovery in cancer research, etiology, prevention, detection, treatment, and cures.
In 2022, the AACR commemorates the 115th anniversary of its founding, celebrates the unparalleled progress made against cancer throughout its history, and honors its members as the driving force to eradicate cancer.
Celebrating 115 Years as the Driving Force to Eradicate Cancer
Beginning with the AACR Annual Meeting 2022, the AACR will acknowledge this special anniversary in several ways throughout the year:
AACR Annual Meeting Opening Ceremony
The AACR’s role as the driving force to eradicate cancer was celebrated with a special video during the Opening Ceremony at the AACR Annual Meeting 2022 on Sunday, April 10:
Landmarks in Cancer Research
One of the many highlights at the AACR Annual Meeting 2022 was the Landmarks in Cancer Research exhibit. Attendees could walk through an immersive experience that chronicled the events and discoveries that had a profound effect on advancing the knowledge of the causes, detection, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer throughout the rich history of the AACR.
The Landmarks in Cancer Research exhibit honors those who strive to understand and eliminate the more than 200 diseases collectively known as cancer. It offers a tribute to the past and serves as a challenge and an inspiration for the future. The exhibit is still available in PDF format.
View the Landmarks in Cancer Research115th Anniversary Shop
Another highlight of the AACR Annual Meeting 2022 was the 115th Anniversary Shop, which featured branded AACR merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, mugs and more.
These special items will be available through the online Anniversary Shop throughout the year. Donation proceeds from the Anniversary Shop support lifesaving cancer research.
Visit the AACR 115th Anniversary Shop
115th Anniversary Event
On Wednesday, September 21, luminaries from across the cancer research community gather at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., for a special celebration of the progress made against cancer over the past 115 years and the AACR’s central role in advancing that progress.
