UK Markey Cancer Center Secures $12.5 Million Gift to Expand Research, Education, and Care

The University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Foundation recently announced a $12.5 million gift to bolster the UK Markey Cancer Center’s mission in research, education, and patient care. This includes a $12 million endowed fund held in perpetuity and a $500,000 non-endowed fund, approved by the UK Board of Trustees’ health care committee on February 19, 2026.

The Markey Cancer Foundation has a storied legacy dating back to 1978, when it was established as the Ephraim McDowell Cancer Research Foundation following a pivotal $1 million philanthropic gift from Admiral Gene Markey, a U.S. Navy veteran and philanthropist, and his wife Lucille Parker Markey. This initial endowment laid the groundwork for what would become a powerhouse in cancer support, evolving into the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Foundation and channeling over $110 million in total contributions to the UK Markey Cancer Center over nearly five decades.

Founding and Evolution

Hailing from Kentucky roots, Admiral Markey a decorated naval officer and former husband of actress Gene Tierney directed his fortune toward cancer research after personal losses to the disease, transforming the foundation into a dedicated engine for oncology progress. Renamed in honor of the Markeys, it pioneered efforts like research grants for early-career scientists, recruitment of top faculty via endowed chairs, construction of specialized facilities, and expansion of clinical trials and patient support programs. Key milestones include funding the cancer center’s NCI designation journey, culminating in Comprehensive status in 2023.

Since 2023, UK Markey Kentucky’s only such center earned a $13.5M NCI grant renewal, drawing top talent and trials unavailable elsewhere nearby (next center 200 miles away). Director B. Mark Evers’ 2009 hire catalyzed this from initial 2013 designation, blending research-clinical synergy. The gift sustains this elite status amid 55 U.S. peers.​

Fundraising Milestones

Beyond the landmark $12.5 million gift announced in February 2026 which includes a $12 million perpetual endowment and $500,000 for immediate us the foundation has bankrolled transformative projects like the Markey Cancer Center’s ambulatory care building and innovative therapy initiatives. High-profile events, such as Andrea Bocelli concerts, have amplified proceeds, with recent examples raising $1.2 million for new facilities. Cumulative impact: reduced Kentucky’s cancer mortality through community outreach and bench-to-bedside research

Foundation Chair Alex Boone described the gift as a “transformative commitment that will sustain our mission for generations,” emphasizing its role in bridging research-to-care gaps. UK Markey Director B. Mark Evers, MD, highlighted the nearly 50-year partnership: “This honors the Markeys’ vision and powers our fight to reverse cancer’s course in Kentucky.” Together, these funds amplify the center’s goal of reducing the state’s cancer mortality by 25% over the next decade.

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UK Markey Cancer Center Future Vision and CTA

The endowment positions Markey for immunotherapy breakthroughs, AI-driven diagnostics, and global collaborations, per Chair Alex Boone’s “generational impact” vision. End with: Support at ukmarkey.org/donate join 45+ years of beating cancer in Kentucky.

Written by Aharon Tsaturyan, MD,Editor at OncoDaily Intelligence Unit.