Career

Mar 12, 2025, 13:13

Kimryn Rathmell was Awarded 2025 ACS Medal of Honor

On March 8, 2025, Dr. Kimryn Rathmell was honored with the American Cancer Society’s Medal of Honor, the organization’s highest distinction.

The Medal of Honor is the highest distinction awarded by the American Cancer Society, recognizing exceptional individuals whose contributions to basic, clinical, translational, or population science have significantly advanced cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship, improving patient outcomes.

Reflecting on this recognition, Dr. Rathmell stated:

“It is a tremendous honor to receive this award, particularly at a time in our history when the value of cancer research is under fire. It is a privilege to be a part of the incredible culmination of scientific knowledge, human ingenuity, and committed effort that has fueled progress in cancer over the last 20+ years. Seeing the transformation in care happening in real time is thrilling, and I’m motivated to keep pushing to accelerate science-driven cancer advances.”

Photo credit: Pam Traxel/LinkedIn

On LinkedIn, she also expressed gratitude for the American Cancer Society and highlighted the importance of mentoring the next generation of researchers, noting the inspiration she drew from young scientists participating in the event:

“The progress in cancer in the last few years has been astounding, and yet we do have much to do to end cancer as we know it for everyone… The opportunities, realized in rapid development of new treatments, breakthrough discoveries, and engaging all people in the effort, are massive.”

Dr. Rathmell’s work continues to shape the future of oncology and cancer care, ensuring that science remains at the forefront of progress.

About Kimryn Rathmell

Dr. Kimryn Rathmell is a leading expert in kidney cancer, known for her work in translational research and the treatment of complex and hereditary kidney cancers. Her research has been instrumental in defining the molecular characteristics of renal cell carcinomas and uncovering the genetic and biological drivers of the disease. Through her work, she has helped shape new approaches to improve cancer treatment and patient outcomes. Beyond her research, Dr. Rathmell is also a co-founder of the RMC Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting patients with renal medullary carcinoma (RMC).

Most recently, she served as the 17th Director of the National Cancer Institute, where she played a key role in driving cancer research and innovation. Before that, she was a prominent leader at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, holding positions as the Hugh Jackson Morgan Chair in Medicine, Chair of the Department of Medicine, and Physician-in-Chief.

Dr. Rathmell’s journey in science and medicine began with bachelor’s degrees in biology and chemistry from the University of Northern Iowa. She went on to earn both a Ph.D. in biophysics and an M.D. from Stanford University. She completed her internal medicine internship at the University of Chicago, followed by a residency and fellowship in medical oncology at the University of Pennsylvania. In 2022, she further expanded her expertise by earning a Master of Management in Health Care from Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management.

Initially named the American Cancer Society Award, the Medal of Honor was first introduced in 1949. Nominees for the award are put forward by the scientific community and the ACS Board of Directors.

The most recent recipient of the ACS Medal of Honor was Dr. Pasi A. Jänne of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2024. Past honorees include Dr. George N. Papanicolau, inventor of the Pap test; Dr. Robert C. Gallo, renowned for his pioneering work in human retrovirology; and Dr. Judah Folkman, a key researcher in the field of antiangiogenesis.

About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a nationwide organization dedicated to fighting cancer. Since its founding in 1913, ACS has worked to prevent cancer and reduce the impact of cancer diagnoses through research, education, advocacy, and support services. With over two million volunteers, ACS funds important cancer research and helps scientists make strides in understanding and treating cancer. The organization is also a key resource for cancer statistics and epidemiological data and is trusted by both the public and the media.

Kimryn Rathmell