By IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
June 15, 2026
Inspiring the next generation of cancer researchers, healthcare professionals
As part of the 2026 Cancer Research Day, the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center welcomed 40 high school students from the MSD of Lawrence Township McKenzie Center for Innovation & Technology Biomedical Sciences Program and Grant County Oak Hill High School for the inaugural high school track.
Developed through a partnership among high school faculty, the cancer center’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness (OIE) and Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC), the program introduced urban and rural students to cancer research, career pathways, and the cancer workforce through interactive learning and mentorship. Students also interacted with faculty, staff, and trainees, including members of the IU School of Medicine Student National Medical Association, who served as panelists and mentors throughout the day.
Students participated in a Cancer 101 session led by Andrew Tilston-Lunel, PhD, explored research posters presented by faculty, staff, and trainees, and engaged in small-group mentoring and career discussions with professionals representing multiple stages of the cancer workforce pipeline.
“Students were able to meaningfully engage with a wide range of professionals and become exposed to groundbreaking research. Students left feeling empowered to consider how they could be part of the fight against cancer," Danielle Willson, faculty at Oak Hill High School, said.
Mentors included cancer center faculty and staff Josh Huot, Shelley Johns, Jill Fehrenbacher, Eric Vachon, Calvin Roberson, and MacKenzie White, as well as graduate and medical student trainees, including Dr. Mirindi Kabangu, Dr. Andrés Alarcón, Noor Malik, Adaobi Okolocha and Tayler Smith.
Students indicated they valued direct interaction with researchers and learning about the many pathways into cancer research and care. The pilot program represents the latest cancer center initiative to expand STEM engagement and strengthen the cancer workforce pipeline across Indiana.
Looking ahead
Building on the success of this year's pilot, the planning team is exploring a two-part experience for the 2026-2027 school year. A fall program would introduce students to cancer research through laboratory visits and hands-on experiences, followed by participation in Cancer Research Day as in the spring. Faculty, staff, and trainees interested in hosting students in their laboratories, providing demonstrations, or serving as mentors are encouraged to contact Deb Cole at cancoie@iu.edu for more information.
