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CLL Society Honors Innovative Research for Patient Care

On July 21, 2025, the CLL Society, the foremost authority on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), proclaimed the winners of its annual Research Program awards. The commendable achievements of three researchers were highlighted, showcasing their pivotal contributions to the understanding and treatment of these blood cancers. The awards this year were presented in three distinguished categories: the Integrative Medicine Award, Clinical Scholar Award, and Young Investigator Award, reflecting a commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative research.

Awards Overview

The Research Program by the CLL Society aims to fund projects that enhance the quality of life for patients diagnosed with CLL and SLL. This year's awardees have displayed exceptional initiative and creativity in the realm of clinical and integrative medicine approaches.

Integrative Medicine Award

The winner of the Integrative Medicine Award is Dr. Nancy Musoke, a Hematology/Oncology fellow at Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute. Dr. Musoke is recognized for her project titled "Curcumin, Exercise and Placebo Effects on CLL/SLL Progression and Immune Function." This study aims to assess whether lifestyle adjustments, including curcumin supplementation and increased physical activity, can bolster immune functionality and overall well-being, potentially decelerating disease progression during the crucial 'watch-and-wait' phase of treatment. This pivotal research addresses a significant gap in the evaluation of integrative therapies which are frequently requested but seldom studied in clinical settings. Notably, the award was made possible through community donations paired with a matching grant from Vigyan Singhal.

Clinical Scholar Award

The Clinical Scholar Award was presented to Dr. Matthew S. Davids, who serves as the Director of Clinical Research within the Lymphoma Division at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and as an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Davids' project, "Optimizing Glofitamab Combination Therapy in Richter's Transformation," investigates innovative non-chemotherapy treatment strategies for a serious complication of CLL known as Richter's transformation (RT). His study involves analyzing the FDA-approved bispecific antibody glofitamab alone and alongside other cutting-edge therapies to formulate more effective and less toxic treatment modalities. The research demonstrates a commitment to personalization in treatment and advancing available options for patients undergoing one of the most challenging phases associated with CLL.

Young Investigator Award

Recognizing up-and-coming talent in CLL research, the Young Investigator Award went to Dr. Quinlan Sievers, a medical oncology fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Sievers' recognition stems from his project entitled "Discovery and Overcoming Mechanisms of Resistance to BTK Inhibitors." This research delves into identifying why certain patients develop resistance to promising new therapies known as BTK degraders. By employing genetic sequencing and laboratory models, Dr. Sievers aims to elucidate resistance pathways to inform the subsequent iterations of BTK-targeted treatments. His work holds the potential to offer more durable and personalized options for patients who have relapsed after existing therapies.

A Vision for Future Research

Robyn Brumble, Senior Director of Scientific Affairs at CLL Society, commented, "Since launching in 2022, our Research Program has expanded significantly, growing from a single award to multiple grants each year that target critical gaps in CLL/SLL care. The achievements of this year’s awardees truly symbolize the forefront of innovation in clinical care and scientific discovery."

The 2025 recipients represent an inspiring blend of fresh perspectives and established expertise, and their contributions underscore the CLL Society's ongoing commitment to transformative research. To explore the ongoing funding initiatives of the CLL Society, interested individuals can visit CLL Society’s official website.

About CLL Society

Founded in 2013 by Dr. Brian Koffman, a physician and advocate for CLL patients, and Patricia Koffman, the CLL Society aims to address the unmet needs of the CLL/SLL community through education, support, advocacy, and groundbreaking research. As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the CLL Society plays a vital role in improving the lives of those affected by chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma.

For additional information, please contact Hallie Long at Mekky Media Relations via phone at 716-704-8367 or via email.