U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and the rest of Utah’s congressional delegation have recognized the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) for its work in cancer research and care. The acknowledgment came in a letter addressed to Dr. Ulrich, highlighting HCI’s contributions to individuals and families across Utah and the Mountain West.
The letter was signed by Senator Lee, Senator John Curtis (R-UT), and Representatives Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), and Mike Kennedy (R-UT-03).
The letter states:
“Dear Dr. Ulrich,
We the Utah Congressional Delegation would like to convey our sincere gratitude to the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) at the University of Utah. HCI is Utah’s only National Cancer Institute and the only such center serving the Mountain West. HCI alleviates the burden of cancer diagnoses for individuals and families across our state and region.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Utah. This year alone, more than 15,000 Utahns will receive a cancer diagnosis, and nearly 4,000 will die of the disease. HCI has distinguished itself as a national leader by making discoveries that translate directly into lifesaving clinical advancement. Pioneering work in genetics, precision oncology, population sciences, immunotherapy, and cancer prevention research has improved the lives of countless individuals and families in the region. By identifying cancer causing genes and deploying targeted strategies for early detection and treatment, the institute elevates Utah’s longstanding leadership in genetics and cancer research. These efforts are complemented by ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Huntsman Cancer Institute Comprehensive Cancer Center in Vineyard, Utah and an expansion of the region’s only center for proton therapy. HCI serves an important role as a national leader in advancing research and care innovations that seek to improve access to cancer patients in rural communities.
In response to the need for healthcare professionals in Utah, HCI trains the next generation and develops Utah’s healthcare workforce. Through strong academic partnerships and exceptional training programs, the institute prepares researchers, clinicians, nurses, and allied health professionals who will meet the future challenges of cancer prevention, treatment, and research. In many cases, the nation looks to these people as the foremost experts in their respective fields.
We are proud of and grateful for the Institute’s commitment to excellence and innovation, and we recognize its indispensable role in improving outcomes for patients and families across Utah and the Mountain West.”
Senator Mike Lee represents all residents of Utah as their United States Senator according to his official website. He maintains offices throughout Salt Lake City, St. George, Vernal, Utah, as well as Washington D.C., offering constituent services on federal matters and contact options. His legislative priorities include public safety issues along with health care initiatives as outlined on his website.
The full text of this letter can be accessed online.
