The 2024 Cato T. Laurencin Lifetime Research Award was given to Dr. Selwyn M. Vickers during the opening ceremony of the National Medical Association’s Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly. The award, named after Professor Cato T. Laurencin of the University of Connecticut, was given by Laurencin himself and is considered one of the highest honors of the W. Montague Cobb/National Medical Association Health Institute and the National Medical Association.

Vickers is a world renowned gastrointestinal surgical oncologist. He is most known for his pioneering research in pancreatic cancer treatment, co-leading the development of Minnelide, an injectable cancer medication that entered into phase 2 clinical trials. He attended Johns Hopkins University for his baccalaureate and medical degrees. He now serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

The Cato T. Laurencin M.D., Ph.D., Lifetime Research Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated more than 20 years of consistent, long-lasting contributions to benefit human health and to reduce heath disparities through recognized research and inquiry. The award recognizes Vickers for his research contributions, dedications to combating pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers worldwide, and his leadership in healthcare.

Laurencin is the Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Connecticut. He is the first surgeon to be elected to the National Academy of Medicine, National Academy of Engineering, National Academy of Sciences, and the National Academy. Laurencin was bestowed the Walsh McDermott medal, one of their oldest and highest awards. A knee and shoulder surgeon, he earned the Nicolas Andry Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor, from the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons.

Laurencin is active in mentoring and received the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) mentor award, the Beckman Award for Mentoring and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Math, and Engineering Mentoring from President Obama in ceremonies at the White House.

Active in social justice and equity, Laurencin also earned the Herbert W. Nickens Award from the Association of American Medical Colleges. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, the premier Journal in the field.