NCCN Staff Achievements Celebrated at Recent Awards and Publications

Celebrating the Accomplishments of NCCN Staff

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a premier alliance of top cancer centers, has recently announced various external recognitions highlighting the remarkable contributions of its dedicated staff in advancing cancer care and research. These accolades embody the commitment of NCCN employees to improve the lives of cancer patients through enhanced quality and equitable healthcare solutions.

Recognitions for Outstanding Contributions

The strides made by NCCN toward redefining cancer treatment and prevention have not gone unnoticed. The organization has received several awards and published pieces acknowledging its systematic approach to elevating cancer care quality and accessibility. According to Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, CEO of NCCN, “These awards and publications showcase some impressive accomplishments from the remarkable people and programs at NCCN.” The recognition not only acknowledges hard work but also amplifies the influence NCCN has in shaping superior cancer care practices.

Leadership in Policy and Equity

One notable recognition was awarded to Dr. Alyssa Schatz, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at NCCN, who received accolades for her outstanding work in advancing health equity and advocacy. Recognized by the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) under the Booker T. Washington Awards, Dr. Schatz's impact extends to her collaboration with organizations such as the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), focusing on pivotal changes in cancer care equity. Her work on the Health Equity Report Card (HERC), which incentivizes more equitable practices in cancer treatment, has been instrumental in advancing this cause.

Dr. Schatz expressed gratitude for the recognition, remarking on the collaborative work being done to address disparities in cancer care. She highlighted, “NMQF is an organization that has been leading the charge in advancing more equitable and just health systems for decades.”

Advancements in Biochemical Research

Another standout among the honored staff is Dr. Faviolla Baez-Cruz, who was awarded by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for her research on β-Cardiac Myosin. The work, which delves into the intricacies of heart muscle contractions, symbolizes the critical role biochemistry plays in comprehending cardiovascular diseases. As part of her responsibilities, Dr. Baez-Cruz contributes to the ongoing development and updates of NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, which serve as essential resources for healthcare providers worldwide.

Patient Education Initiatives

Beyond advancements in research, the NCCN Guidelines for Patients® have also received accolades, including a Gold Hermes Creative Award for excellence in patient education materials, specifically for the Guidelines on Bone Cancer. This award celebrates NCCN's commitment to translating complex medical information into easily comprehensible formats for patients and their caregivers. The comprehensive library, which encompasses over 70 titles spanning various cancer types, ensures that patients can make informed decisions regarding their treatment options.

The latest iteration of the Guidelines for Patients Bone Cancer was updated in March 2026, evidencing NCCN's commitment to continuously delivering accurate and accessible information. These resources are available free of charge thanks to the NCCN Foundation, demonstrating a profound dedication to empowering cancer patients with knowledge.

Looking Ahead

The accolades commemorating NCCN's staff and their works not only underscore individual achievements but also reflect the collective effort of the organization in pushing boundaries toward enhanced cancer care. With an eye on equity, innovation, and education, NCCN is dedicated to ensuring all individuals have access to superior cancer treatment and prevention strategies.

About NCCN

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a not-for-profit organization that focuses on improving cancer care, education, and research. Through its extensive guidelines and resources, NCCN is committed to helping patients navigate their cancer journey and make informed decisions about their health.

For more information about NCCN and its initiatives, visit NCCN.org.