Breast Cancer Science Social

At our inaugural Breast Cancer Science Social, guests were welcomed into Joseph E. Walther Hall with butterflies and balloons. Participants left butterfly-shaped special messages for researchers on a Gratitude Wall to thank them for their hard work.

In 2019, Breast Cancer Science Social returned for its second year! Due to its popularity and impact, another Gratitude Wall was created outside of research laboratories as a source of encouragement for researchers. The primary panel, moderated by Kathy Miller, MD, included research discussions and a Q&A with Tarah Ballinger, MD, Carla Fisher, MD, and Xiongbin Lu, PhD.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 and campus event restrictions, we were unable to host Breast Cancer Science Social.

Along with its classic behind-the-scenes look into research, Breast Cancer Science Social welcomed Indianapolis-based artist Ess McKee to the event. While live painting, guests were able to visit with McKee and share their motivation behind what brought them to the event. By the end of the event, McKee had created a beautiful piece of artwork representing her interactions with those in attendance. Attendees heard research updates from Kathy Miller, MD, Hari Nakshatri, PhD, Mateusz Oprychal, MD, PhD, and Michelle Cote, PhD.

In 2024, Breast Cancer Science Social was augmented to include additional informational panels, exhibits with community partners, and exciting giveaway prizes and collaboration with the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. Community partners included Pink-4-Ever, Pink Ribbon Connection, Hoosier Breast Cancer Advocates, Komen Tissue Bank, and 100 Voices of Hope. The primary panel included research discussions and a Q&A with Tarah Ballinger, MD, Bryan Schneider, MD, Pravin Kaumaya, PhD, and Carla Fisher, MD.