William N. Hait to Receive 2025 AACR-Margaret Foti Award for Leadership in Cancer Research

In the world of oncology, few names command as much respect and admiration as Dr. William N. Hait, MD, PhD, FAACR. A physician-scientist, a visionary leader, and a passionate advocate for cancer research, Dr. Hait has spent his life working at the intersection of science, medicine, and human hope. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, he will be honored with the 2025 AACR-Margaret Foti Award for Leadership and Extraordinary Achievements in Cancer Research at the AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago.

William N. Hait: A Life Rooted in Curiosity and Compassion

Dr. Hait’s journey began with dual passions: understanding the science behind diseases and using that knowledge to heal. He earned his MD and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania, laying the foundation for a career that would blend groundbreaking laboratory research with hands-on clinical care.

At Yale School of Medicine, where he launched his academic career, Dr. Hait quickly made his mark. He rose through the ranks to become Chief of Medical Oncology and helped lead the Breast and Lung Cancer Units. Even early in his career, he was known not just for his intellect, but for his deep empathy and commitment to patients.

Photo of William N. Hait from upenn.edu

Building a Cancer Institute from the Ground Up

In 1993, Dr. Hait took a bold step by becoming the founding director of the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. It wasn’t just about managing a center — it was about building something from scratch with the goal of transforming cancer care and research in the state and beyond. Under his leadership, the institute gained National Cancer Institute designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center — a recognition few achieve, and a testament to his vision and tireless work.

From Academia to Industry: Impact on a Global Scale

Dr. Hait didn’t stop there. He brought his passion to the pharmaceutical world, joining Johnson & Johnson in 2007. As Global Head of Janssen R&D, he led teams that developed cutting-edge therapies and advanced precision medicine, ensuring that discoveries in the lab could reach patients faster and more effectively.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hait has been a pioneer in cancer pharmacology, particularly in understanding how disrupted cell signaling contributes to cancer. His work helped shape today’s targeted therapies, offering new hope to patients with once-deadly diagnoses.

The 2025 AACR-Margaret Foti Award

Each year, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) presents the Margaret Foti Award to an individual whose leadership and achievements have had a profound impact on the cancer research field. Named after AACR’s visionary CEO, the award celebrates those who’ve not only advanced science but inspired others through their dedication and leadership.

This year, Dr. Hait will receive the award — not just for his remarkable scientific accomplishments, but for the way he’s moved the entire field forward. He’s mentored countless young scientists, championed innovation, and always kept the needs of patients at the center of his work.

American Association for Cancer Research shared this news on LinkedIn as follows:

“The AACR is pleased to announce that William N. Hait will be honored with the 2025 AACR-Margaret Foti Award for Leadership and Extraordinary Achievements in Cancer Research at the AACR Annual Meeting 2025 in Chicago.

Dr. Hait is being recognized for his extensive contributions to cancer pharmacology, drug discovery, and precision medicine, including early recognition of adverse signal transduction events capable of driving malignant cell growth and advances in the development of targeted therapies. Dr. Hait will present his award lecture on Monday, April 28, at 4:15 p.m. CT.”

A Legacy That Inspires

Dr. William Hait’s story is one of relentless dedication — not to prestige, but to purpose. He’s someone who has always asked: “What more can we do for people with cancer?” And then found a way to do it.

As he takes the stage in Chicago to accept this well-deserved honor, Dr. Hait represents the best of what oncology can be: a field driven by science, but powered by humanity.

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By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bureau