University of Hawaii Secures $2.5 Million to Enhance Oncology Services Statewide

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The University of Hawaii has received a significant grant of $2.5 million to expand oncology services, clinical research, and specialist education throughout the islands. The funding, donated by the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, will support the Ka ʻUmeke Lama initiative at the UH Cancer Center, which focuses on boosting academic and workforce development in the region.

Chancellor Vassillis Symros of UH Manoa remarked, “Through Ka ‘Umeke Lama, we are advancing world-class research and clinical training that directly benefits our island communities.” This new grant is in conjunction with a prior $1.2 million contribution from Helmsley to assist in establishing the Ho’ola Early Phase Clinical Research Center in 2024. The initiative seeks to reduce disparities in cancer outcomes, particularly for residents of neighbor islands and rural areas.