Women Business Leaders (WBL), of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation, recently recognized American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Chief Executive Officer Margaret Foti, PhD, MD (hc), with the 2019 Women of Inspiration and Influence award. Dr. Foti is among 11 senior executive women honored this year for their contributions to the health-care industry.
Margaret Foti, PhD, MD (hc)
During Dr. Foti’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the AACR, membership grew from about 3,000 to over 42,000 laboratory, translational, and clinical researchers; population scientists; other health-care professionals; and cancer advocates residing in 120 countries. The proportion of AACR members who are women rose 13% in the 1980s to 40% today. In addition, women currently hold 47% of the leadership positions in the AACR, including positions on the Board of Directors and on standing committees, task forces, and other entities.
Dr. Foti also worked to integrate an external organization called Women in Cancer Research (WICR) into the AACR, forming a membership group committed to recognizing women’s scientific achievements and fostering their career development and advancement in cancer research. She currently sits on the WICR Council, an advisory body to the AACR leadership on issues of concern to women investigators.
Professional Experiences and Awards
DR. FOTI has served as a board member and President of the National Coalition for Cancer Research, President of the Council of Biology Editors, President of the Society for Scholarly Publishing, a member of the executive committee and board of Friends of Cancer Research, a board member of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, a medical advisory board member of the Prevent Cancer Foundation, and a council member of the European Association for Cancer Research.
In honor of Dr. Foti’s leadership, the AACR created the AACR–Margaret Foti Award for Leadership and Extraordinary Achievements in Cancer Research. Established in 2007, the award recognizes cancer researchers with a sustained commitment to the prevention and cure of cancer. ■
