Stewardship Report Winter 2026 / Volume 09
The MRF’s mission is to eradicate melanoma by accelerating medical research while educating and advocating for the melanoma community.
The MRF is pleased to announce it is a 4-star-rated charity receiving a 96% rating by Charity Navigator.
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“The Foundation is completely funded by the community it serves and many times those donors are directly and tragically impacted by the disease. They are patients, their loved ones and friends who are seeking better treatment options and, one day, a cure for melanoma and its various forms. We are grateful to our village of supporters who partner with us and advocate for the entire melanoma community whether by funding research, speaking to their lawmakers or by sharing their own story to inspire and uplift others.” “Since joining the MRF Board as a patient/ survivor, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to enhancing our research investment and applying a patient-centric approach to our programming and services that best meets our community’s needs. In late 2023, we launched our ‘Legacy of Progress’ Endowment solely to fund future research growth and treatment opportunities. As a Founding ‘Legacy of Progress’ Member, I am pleased with the overwhelming response of our community’s commitment to funding research (65% of goal achieved), knowing it contributes directly to finding a cure. Our future of finding a cure not only relies on research but in listening to patients/ advocates/constituents to better address education around prevention of this disease, as a priority for the Foundation. Our commitment for the future is stronger than ever to achieve a world where melanoma no longer exists.”
Kyleigh LiPira Chief Executive Officer
The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) was founded in 1996 by Diana Ashby, a melanoma patient who was frustrated by the lack of treatment options and support resources available at the time. Diana’s vision was to give melanoma patients and caregivers a reason for hope. Twenty-nine years later, her legacy lives on as the MRF has grown into the largest independent organization devoted to all types of melanoma, funding more than $28 million in life-saving research and offering a powerful voice for the 1.4 million Americans living with melanoma.
Douglas Brodman Board Chair
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Table of Contents
5
24
Research and Science
Donor Support and Events
10
Research — Rare Subtypes
33
12
Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund
Education, Awareness and Prevention
19
Education — Rare Subtypes
21
36
Advocacy
Leadership
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Research and Science
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Research and Science
Accelerating Research: Grants
GRANTS INCLUDE:
Medical Student Research Awards
From basic science to clinical trials, medical students to established investigators.
Career Development Awards (CDA)
Resident/Fellow Research Awards
Established Investigator Awards (EIA) including the Lethal Melanoma Award in Honor of Katie Morgan
Merit Awards in conjunction with the Society for Melanoma Research (SMR)
Grants awarded in 2025, totaling more than $1,600,000. 34
MRF Breakthrough Consortium Team Award
MRF Breakthrough Consortium Pilot Translational Award
MRF Endowed Merit Award in conjunction with Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation
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Research and Science
Total Grants Funding Is Now Over $28M and Awarded Through:
137
Medical Student Research Awards
3
121
Career Development Awards
21
15
48
Established Investigator Awards
121
6
21
Merit Awards in conjunction with the Society for Melanoma Research (SMR) MRF Breakthrough Consortium Team Awards
15
10
Resident/Fellow Research Awards
6
MRF Breakthrough Consortium Pilot Translational Awards
137
3
MRF Endowed Merit Awards in conjunction with Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation
10
1
Mid-Career Bridge Grant
1
7
Other Awards
48
7
Note: 243 awards were funded by a specific donor (for example: In Memory Of, In Honor Of, Funded By, Memorial Award; or funded by a specific fund/foundation).
New in 2025: The Lethal Melanoma Established Investigator Award (EIA) in honor of Katie Morgan was granted to Lisa Cannon-Albright, PhD of the University of Utah. Dr. Cannon-Albright’s work will explore and identify the genes and variants responsible for lethal melanoma to improve identification of those people most at risk, expand understanding of the causes of lethal melanoma and allow the application of powerful screening and prevention strategies.
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Research and Science
The MRF Breakthrough Consortium (MRFBC) is a unique national network of 33 academic centers of excellence in melanoma. The MRFBC fosters collaboration and information exchange to accelerate the research and development of the most promising therapies in melanoma treatment in order to deliver curative options to patients. MRFBC institutions have a track record of receiving NIH/peer-reviewed funding, publications in major medical journals, presentations at major cancer and melanoma conferences, clinical trial expertise and patient care. An in-person MRFBC meeting was held at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting.
2025 MRFBC Team Award Funding support enables the annual MRFBC Team Award. In 2025, the MRFBC Team Award was granted to a team of scientists investigating RNA-LNP therapeutics for melanomas resistant to current treatments, particularly immunotherapy. The multi-disciplinary research team is led by Ravi Amaravadi, MD of the University of Pennsylvania.
Huntsman Cancer Institute
University of Colorado
Mayo Clinic*
Northwestern University University
Dana Farber/Harvard Cancer Center Yale University
of Chicago Ohio State University
Cornell University
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Columbia University
University of Pittsburgh
California Pacific Medical Center
New York University
University of California San Francisco
Northwell Health University of Pennsylvania/ Wistar Institute
Ravi Amaravadi, MD
Stanford Cancer Institute
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Thomas Jefferson University
St. John’s Cancer Institute
Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center University of Virginia Johns Hopkins University
The Angeles Clinic and Research Center
Duke University
University of California Los Angeles
University of North Carolina
MD Anderson Cancer Center
University of Arizona
Moffitt Cancer Center
Vanderbilt University
University of Miami
* Includes satellite sites in Arizona and Florida. Note: New sites added in 2025: University of Virginia, University of North Carolina, Cornell University, Stanford Cancer Institute, University of Arizona and Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN and satellite sites in Phoenix, Arizona and Jacksonville, Florida).
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Research and Science
Partnering with Leaders in Melanoma Hosted the Brain Metastasis 4.0 Workshop NOVEMBER 2025 Workshop co-chairs: Michael A. Davies, MD, PhD (MD Anderson Cancer Center); Harriet Kluger, MD (Yale School of Medicine); Eva Hernando-Monge, PhD (NYU Langone)
American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) APRIL 25–30, 2025; CHICAGO, IL Three oral and one poster presentation of MRF-funded research. To learn more about the innovative melanoma research
presented at AACR, scan the QR code to view: Melanoma Research Updates Presented at 2025 American Association for Cancer Research Conference
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) MAY 30–JUNE 5, 2025; CHICAGO, IL Attended several sessions related to innovations in melanoma care, including the rare melanoma subtypes. Presented the ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation — MRF Endowed Award to Mark Schuiveling, MD, for research on “AI-detected tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and response
to PD-1-based treatment in advanced melanoma.” To learn more about the ASCO presentations, scan the QR code to view: 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting Recap
Michael A. Davies, MD, PhD MD Anderson Cancer Center
Harriet Kluger, MD Yale School of Medicine
Eva Hernando- Monge, PhD NYU Langone
Society for Melanoma Research International Congress (SMR)
OCTOBER 25–28, 2025; AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS Presented the SMR/MRF Christopher J. Marshall Award to: Simone Lubrano, PhD (University of Pisa, Italy and UCSF) [top right image] for his work to understand why some melanomas stop responding to treatments over time and identify new ways to make therapies more effective. Presented the SMR/MRF Young Investigator Award to Joanna Pozniak, PhD (VIB-KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Belgium) [bottom left image] for her work focusing on understanding how individual patients’ tumors react to immune-centered therapies (immunotherapy).
“I am a stage 4 melanoma survivor. In 2017 my wife saw a small painless bump on the back of my head. Without any other symptoms I was soon diagnosed with 6 tumors in my brain, 16 in my lungs and 1 on my gallbladder. With probably weeks to live, the CheckMate 204 trial program turned out to be just what I needed. Those immunotherapy treatments saved my life. Research is the reason I survived and am able to enjoy life today. I have told my story multiple times since then, but no group has ever listened as intensely or felt so satisfying to me as my 2025 talk at the MRF’s Brain Metastasis 4.0 Workshop. Researchers are the best!” — David Marsden, Patient Advocate
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Research — Rare Subtypes
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Research and Science / Research — Rare Subtypes
Advancing Research for the Rare Melanoma Subtypes
Hosted Meeting CURE OM Global Science Meeting The 14th Annual CURE OM Global Science Meeting was held in the fall of 2025 in conjunction with the Society for Melanoma Congress (SMR). The goal of this meeting is to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation between global leading OM researchers and clinicians, patients and industry partners. A few highlights from the 2025 meeting include: • 60 international OM experts attended • 18 speakers representing the scientific community and industry presented on various topics • Session topics included: – Powering the Immune Arsenal: ICIs, Vaccines, Viruses & Cellular Approaches – Fueling Discovery: Tools Driving OM Research Forward – Innovation Lighting Talks from Industry – T Cell Engagers & the RECIST Disconnect: What Tebe Teaches Us – Targeted Therapy: Assessing Darovasertib- Crizotinib for Optimal Outcomes • Industry sponsors include: Replimune, Immunocore, Castle Biosciences, IDEAYA Biosciences, Aura, Delcath and iOnctura
Spotlighting an Acral and Mucosal Melanoma Career Development Award Transforming Therapy for Acral and Mucosal Melanoma Using RAS(ON) Inhibitors “By identifying the biological mechanisms that allow the cancer to escape treatment, I aim to discover combination therapies that can enhance the effectiveness of RAS(ON) inhibitors. The results of this research will provide valuable insights into how acral and mucosal melanoma can be better treated, guiding the development of new, more effective therapies. Ultimately, this work aims to bring new hope to patients with these rare and challenging melanomas by advancing precision medicine approaches tailored to their unique cancer biology.” Spotlighting a Mucosal Melanoma Resident Fellow Award Molecular Investigation of Metastatic Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma “Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare primary malignancy with aggressive clinical behavior, affecting the sinonasal tract. Spotlighting a Uveal Melanoma Medical Student Award Multimodal Tumor Measurements for Advancing Uveal Melanoma Diagnostics “Our study aims to combine circulating hybrid cell detection and quantification with cutting-edge clinical imaging to identify uveal patients at increased risk for metastasis. By leveraging these two technologies, we can identify patients who may qualify for clinical trials focused on treating metastatic disease. This approach can also lead to better overall survival for patients with uveal melanoma.” Given the high metastatic rate of SNMM and its dismal prognosis, it is of paramount importance to investigate potential diagnostic biomarkers for the early detection of SNMM with distant metastasis (SNMM-M) and identify therapeutic targets for individualized treatment.”
Mona Foth, PhD University of Utah
Dong Ren, MD, PhD The Regents of the University of California, Irvine
Amanda Zucker Oregon Health & Science University
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
New Educational Materials and Resources
Educational Literature The MRF currently offers 37 pieces of educational literature to support patients, caregivers and the broader melanoma community. In 2025, more than 20,000 materials were distributed to 25 states, and several materials were made available in Spanish to expand accessibility. Visit melanoma.org/ educationinstitute to learn more.
Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Guide for Stages 2–3 (Resectable) The new Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Guide for Stages 2–3 (Resectable) provides essential information on: • Understanding melanoma, diagnosis and staging • Treatment options, including surgery and follow-up care • Questions to ask healthcare professionals, second opinions and clinical considerations • Emotional support, caregiving guidance and strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence and protect your skin
Your Melanoma TIL Cell Therapy Patient Journey Infographic The TIL Patient Journey infographic walks patients through the full timeline of TIL cell therapy, highlighting key milestones from tumor collection and treatment preparation through infusion and follow-up care. It is designed to help patients better understand the sequence of steps and what to expect at each stage of the journey.
Leptomeningeal Disease (LMD) Fact Sheet This one-page overview describes LMD, explaining what it is and how it develops. It also highlights symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and
questions to ask your doctor. The LMD Fact Sheet is also available in Spanish.
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
Patient Education — Cutaneous
To View Patient Symposia Recordings, access the MRF’s YouTube playlist below:
Hosted 6 Patient Symposia Seattle, WA • Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Chapel Hill, NC • UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus, OH • The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jacksonville, FL • Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center Santa Monica, CA • Providence Saint John’s Cancer Institute Virtual Symposium • Featuring experts from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
Hosted 5 Cutaneous “Ask the Expert” Webinars
• Understanding Melanoma: Risk Factors, Screening Data and Sun Safety Best Practices • What to Know about Combination Immunotherapy Treatment • ASCO 2025 Highlights: What Cutaneous Melanoma Patients Need to Know
• Minimal Residual Disease Testing in Melanoma Management • LAG-3 Inhibitors: Exploring a New Path in Melanoma Treatment
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR EDUCATION INSTITUTE SPONSORS!
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
Prevention Committee
Dermatology Alliance Council (DAC) Mission: To convene the academic and private practice dermatology community around prevention, early detection and research initiatives to foster collaboration in the field and inform and support the patient-focused programming of the MRF. The DAC welcomed 11 new members this year and the in-person and virtual meetings focused on research topics relevant to the melanoma dermatology community. The AAD in-person meeting highlighted AI research in melanoma detection.
Mission: To increase and steer the MRF’s influence within the greater melanoma prevention community. The Committee identifies and supports strategies to enhance the Foundation’s focus on melanoma prevention and early detection within its mission areas of research, education and advocacy.
Members
Members Rebecca Hartman, MD (Co-Chair) Veronica Rotemberg, MD, PhD (Co-Chair)* Crystal Aguh, MD Joshua Arbesman, MD* Jeremy Bordeaux, MD, MPH Whitney Bowe, MD* Bruce Brod, MD Maria Gnarra Buethe, MD, PhD, FAAD* Jennifer Choi, MD Lilia Correa, MD Collin M. Costello, MD* Meghan Dickman, MD* Laura Ferris, MD, PhD (Past Co-Chair) James Grichnik, MD, PhD
Elise Barish (Chair) Leah Adams Stan Adler Addison Brush Lori Crane, PhD, MPH Laura Ferris, MD, PhD
Rebecca Hartman, MD, MPH, FAAD Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD Alison Martin, MD Nicole Werpachowski, MD
Michelle Henry, MD* Sancy Leachman, MD, PhD Orit Markowitz, MD, FAAD Ata Moshiri, MD Kelly Nelson, MD, FAAD Kelly K. Park, MD, MSL, FAAD, FACMS* Harper Price, MD (Past Co-Chair) Arlene Ruiz De Luzuriaga, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAD*
Michael R. Sargen, MD* Todd Schlesinger, MD Susan Swetter, MD Hensin Tsao, MD Hillary Tsibris, MD, FAAD* Mackenzie Wehner, MD Maria Wei, MD, PhD*
Allan Halpern, MD Elena Hawryluk, MD
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* New Members
Education, Awareness and Prevention
SunAWARE TM
The WHY?! Why Are People Requesting SunAWARE TM ?
Empowering Kids to Be Sun Safe, Every Day with SunAWARE TM !
“After experiencing skin cancer, I want to help prevent it for the next generation.”
SunAWARE TM is the MRF’s newly developed sun safety eLearning program for children in grades K–5. The curriculum promotes healthy, sun-safe habits to help prevent melanoma, skin cancer and sun-related skin damage.
SunAWARE TM Ambassador Program The SunAWARE TM Ambassador Program is a nationwide network of community-based volunteers who help bring the SunAWARE TM eLearning curriculum to local schools and communities. Ambassadors actively support implementation by: • Coordinating presentations with school administrators • Connecting with health-focused and community-based organizations • Assisting with local adoption and delivery of the SunAWARE TM curriculum
SunAWARE TM is available for use by schools, youth clubs, after-school programs, parents, healthcare providers and community organizations. Key Curriculum Features • Skin Protection Basics — Using shade, sunscreen and protective clothing • Sun Safety & Sunburns — Understanding UV risks and how to prevent sunburn • Lessons from Nature — How animals and humans naturally protect themselves from the sun • UV Light & Skin Health — Effects of UV rays on aging and skin damage • ABCDEs of Melanoma — How to recognize changes on your skin • Myth-Busting — Separating fact from fiction about tanning, skin safety and finding credible information
“As a parent, I want my children to develop healthy sun habits early.”
“Prevention is simple, effective and can save lives.”
Learn more at: melanoma.org/ youth-prevention/ sunaware/
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Education, Awareness and Prevention
Melanoma Awareness and Prevention
#GetNaked Cutaneous melanoma early detection and prevention and rare melanoma subtype awareness campaign held each May during Melanoma Awareness Month. The campaign urges everyone to #GetNaked once a month for a self-skin exam at home and have an annual full body exam by a board-certified dermatologist. The 2025 campaign featured Ian Michael Crumm, celebrity esthetician, key opinion leader, melanoma supporter and advocate. Read his #GetNaked spokesperson blog here: melanoma.org/news-press/ian-getnaked- spokesperson-blog/
Digital and print campaigns dedicated to cutaneous melanoma prevention and awareness of the rare melanoma subtypes, including ocular, mucosal, pediatric and acral lentiginous. Each campaign is intended to empower patients and caregivers while increasing awareness of each melanoma subtype.
#HandsFeetNails Launched in February 2026 to raise awareness of acral melanoma, #HandsFeetNails is the MRF’s campaign focused on this rare melanoma subtype. #HandsFeetNails shares the stories of acral melanoma patients, survivors and caregivers while providing educational resources to help increase awareness of this disease. Read the story of an acral melanoma survivor at: melanoma.org/news- press/patient-testimonial-from-acral- melanoma-thriver-eric-niles/
#OutOfTheShadows Mucosal melanoma awareness campaign held each March. The #OutOfTheShadows campaign raises awareness of this rare melanoma subtype that represents less than 2% of all melanoma diagnoses each year. Read the story of a mucosal melanoma patient at: melanoma. org/news-press/shelley-belangers- journey-with-mucosal-melanoma/
#SpotTheDog Pediatric and AYA melanoma awareness campaign held each September during Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. The #SpotTheDog campaign raises awareness of and promotes sun safety for parents, pediatricians and dermatologists. Read the story of a pediatric melanoma survivor at: melanoma. org/news-press/a-single- scorching-sunburn-signaled- future-melanoma/
#EyeGetDilated Ocular melanoma awareness campaign held each November. The #EyeGetDilated campaign raises awareness of this rare melanoma subtype and overall eye health and encourages all to receive an annual dilated eye exam. Read the story of an ocular melanoma survivor at: melanoma.org/news-press/ eyegetdilated-dianna-becks-story/
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Education — Rare Subtypes
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Education, Awareness and Prevention / Education — Rare Subtypes
Ocular Melanoma (OM) Support Group
Eyes on a Cure: 14th Annual Eyes on a Cure Ocular Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Symposium IN COLLABORATION WITH CLEVELAND CLINIC, COLE EYE INSTITUTE, 125 ATTENDEES Sessions included: • Low Vision Adjustments and Resources • Melanoma: The Role of Adjuvant Therapies • Financial Navigation
The Ocular Melanoma online support group had a successful year, with up to 25 participants per group. The group included caregivers and patients with both primary and metastatic OM, creating a diverse and supportive community. We had expert speakers who shared about: • Low vision support • Peer-to-peer support • Mental health and cancer exercise • Nutrition • Cancer and Careers
• Empowered Care: Navigating the Journey of Supporting a Loved One with Cancer • Support Group Breakout by Diagnosis Type (metastatic, primary and caregiver) • Journal Session: Ink and Intentions
To join an Ocular Melanoma Support Group, contact CUREOM@melanoma.org
New Rare Subtype Resources for Patients and Caregivers
Five Rare Melanoma “Ask the Expert” Webinars Were Held • Focusing on the Liver: Treatment Approaches in Metastatic Uveal Melanoma • 2025 ASCO Highlights for the Uveal Melanoma Community • Ask the Expert: Pediatric Melanoma: Early Detection, Unique Presentations and Prevention • Ask the Expert: Mucosal Melanoma — Current and Emerging Treatments, Research and Patient Perspectives • Ask the Expert: Navigating Early Detection and Management in Ocular Melanoma
• New Acral Melanoma Educational Webpage — Launched a new acral melanoma website page providing accessible, patient-focused information to support awareness, understanding and informed care • Updated Rare Melanoma Website Pages — Updated rare melanoma subtype webpages, including mucosal, ocular, pediatric and AYA (adolescent and young adult), to reflect current research, treatment approaches and patient-centered information • Updated Ocular Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Resources — Revised and updated the Ocular Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Guide and updated the Questions to Ask Your Doctor resources for primary and metastatic ocular melanoma, including a dedicated caregiver version for caregivers of primary and metastatic ocular melanoma patients • New Acral and Mucosal Educational Materials — Developed new acral and mucosal melanoma fact sheets and launched a new mucosal melanoma patient pamphlet to provide clear, accessible education for patients and caregivers
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Advocacy
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Advocates 50
Advocacy
Advocacy Days “Research is powerful, and it saves lives. We are here today to come together and share our stories on Capitol Hill, and I am so excited to be part of this effort. What I am most excited about is ensuring our voices are heard and emphasizing the critical importance of research funding.”
States 17
51
— Cheryl Stratos
Hill Meetings
Key Advocacy Priorities
Prevention Advocate for NCI to address research gaps identified by the USPSTF for skin cancer screening recommendations. Access • Protect access to mRNA-delivered cancer therapeutics • Protect access to telehealth for all patients
Research • $40 million for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ Melanoma Research Program
• $5 million for the CDC’s Skin Cancer Prevention Program • Increased funding for NCI
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B
Advocacy
Letter-Writing Campaign
Policy Highlights • Upon hearing that Texas lawmakers were going to advance an anti-mRNA vaccine bill, the MRF sent a Texas pediatric melanoma survivor and current pre-medical student to the Texas State House to speak with lawmakers on the harms anti-mRNA bills inflict upon the cancer community. • In an effort to raise continued awareness around the importance of melanoma prevention and early detection, the MRF helped declare May as Melanoma Awareness Month in 9 different states, including Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, South Dakota and Texas, as well as two proclamations on the city and county level. • The SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act was included in Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act Reauthorization passed by Congress.
165 Advocates made 587 lawmaker contacts to preserve federal funding for the Melanoma Research Program and the CDC’s Skin Cancer Prevention Program.
From left to right: Jerome Ward, Senator Mark Kelly, Jack Kollings, Dee Conway and Todd Ring
Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act (OMUFA) The MRF’s Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, Kim Wezik, testified before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee
on Health regarding the need for alignment with
international safety standards for sunscreen filter approvals, with our suggested solutions incorporated into the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act (OMUFA) Reauthorization that passed in December.
Advocates 165
Contacts 587
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Donor Support and Events
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Donor Support and Events
Miles for Melanoma
“My husband James bravely battled melanoma for four years, enduring multiple rounds of treatments, surgeries and radiation while facing the disease with quiet strength and grace. He chose to live as James, not as a cancer patient, and never allowed the disease to define him. When his cancer took a devastating turn, a promising new drug became available, but it was heartbreakingly too late for him to try. I share James’s story [through Miles for Melanoma] to honor his life and to raise awareness and support for melanoma research, in the hope that others will have more options, more time and be spared the pain, loss and suffering our family experienced.”
17 Cities
7,310 Participants
414 Teams
“[I participate in Miles for Melanoma because] the MRF is deeply important to me because it supports families and individuals facing melanoma with resources, hope and community. Having stage 4 metastatic melanoma, I know how vital it is to feel understood, supported and not alone. The MRF’s mission goes far beyond treatment — it brings comfort, awareness and real help to those navigating the hardest chapter of their lives!” — Jennifer Frederick of Team Frederick, Cleveland Miles
“I participate in Miles for Melanoma because I am so grateful for the MRF and their work that helped save my life. I had a stage 1 melanoma removed from my thigh when I was 28. It returned the year I turned 50, making itself known in a nearby lymph node that became enlarged. Stage 3B. Because of immunotherapy, I recently reached the two-year mark with no
— Mary Forni from Team Vincero in memory of James Forni, San Francisco Miles
evidence of disease. The Miles for Melanoma 5K provides me the opportunity to give back!” — Jen Powell of Team Jen-uinely Grateful, DC Miles
Raised in 2025 $1,365,753+
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Donor Support and Events
Galas In 2025, our galas came together to raise over $1.5 million in support of melanoma research, with each dollar driven by courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to saving lives. Alongside honoring remarkable physicians and patients whose stories inspire us all, these funds are fueling critical breakthroughs. Proceeds from the Denver Gala are advancing Dr. Mona Foth’s groundbreaking research on acral and mucosal melanoma at the University of Utah, while the New York Gala is empowering Dr. Craig Ceol’s work at UMass Chan Medical School to uncover new treatment options for patients facing immunotherapy-resistant melanoma. Captain Jason Chambers
14th Annual Denver Gala featuring emcee Jacquie Palisi SEPTEMBER 18 Honorees • Corporate Leadership Award — Iovance Biotherapeutics • Excellence in Prevention Award — Lori A. Crane, PhD, MPH • Humanitarian Award — Martin McCarter, MD • Courage Awards — Jennifer Melahn (Cutaneous Melanoma Survivor), T. Clarke Octigan (Ocular Melanoma Patient) and Terry Tucker (Acral Melanoma Patient)
Pictured in the middle,
Dr. Samer Jaber alongside guests
24th Annual New York Gala featuring emcee Captain Jason Chambers
OCTOBER 30 Honorees
• CURE OM Vision of Hope Award — Tate Edwards Kirk, MD • Corporate Leadership Award — Delcath Systems, Inc. • Influencer Award — Sherene Idriss, MD • Compassionate Care Award — Kathy Madden, MSN, FNP-BC, AOCNP, APHN • Courage Awards — Dr. Allie Dashow (Ocular Melanoma Survivor), Jimmy Hexter (Mucosal Melanoma Patient) and Amy Lipin (Acral Melanoma Patient)
Amy Lipin
“If we can keep the funding going for these scientists, there's so many breakthroughs.” — Amy Lipin, New York Gala Courage Award Honoree
T. Clarke Octigan, Jacquie Palisi and Jennifer Melahn
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Donor Support and Events
Planned Giving: Leaving a Legacy
Keith Murdock’s wife Margaret
Each year, we learn of generous individuals who left money to the MRF as a part of their wills and estates. These legacy gifts are often a wonderful surprise, as we did not know about them ahead of time. While we are honored to have been part of their estate plans, we can’t help but feel a touch of regret that we did not get to know these incredible people while
“Margaret, my wife, was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma in 2005. What began as a “bothersome mole” on her foot soon changed our lives forever, progressing to stage 4 in less than a year. We were blessed to live near the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University in Atlanta, the only NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center in Georgia, where she received treatment. When she was first diagnosed, the only “cure” was surgery and a lot of experimental treatments. We lost count of her surgeries, though there were likely between 12 and 15. She endured many different treatments with horrible side effects. Throughout it all, our surgical and medical oncologists were caring and honest about the nature of these treatments for this incurable disease. We had complete faith in them and their dedication to finding a treatment that would heal her. The Melanoma Research Foundation sponsored a conference at Emory where Margaret was invited to share her journey. This event brought together the melanoma community, including patients and care partners. It was through this experience that we learned about the MRF’s commitment to finding a cure and supporting those living with the disease. Their purpose is completely in line with our deep desire and commitment to those with melanoma. We decided to leave a large portion of our estate to find a cure and support those with it. We are honored to include MRF in our estate plan. We are not rich but God has richly blessed us. Margaret passed away February 26, 2022 after fighting this disease for 17 years. She fought the good fight for these years. Through our gift to MRF, we want to reduce the number of people that develop it and to find a cure for those who do.” — Keith Murdock
they were still with us. When you let us know about your plans to include the MRF in your will, it allows for a unique opportunity for both of us. We can celebrate you now, while you’re here, and ensure your legacy is honored in a way that reflects your values and wishes. By sharing your intention with us, we can forge a real connection with you, one that celebrates your life and the impact you want to make.
When you notify us of your bequest, it allows us to express our heartfelt thanks and celebrate your decision. We can share your story with our community — if you’re comfortable with that — illustrating how one person’s generosity can inspire others. It’s not just about the future impact of your gift; it’s about honoring you today.
To notify us of your intentions, please scan the QR code or contact Dave Wiemer at dwiemer@melanoma.org.
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Donor Support and Events
Beyond Planned Giving: Tax-Smart Ways to Support the MRF
Donor Advised Fund A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) offers tax
Legacy of Progress Society Legacy of Progress Society donors have the profound opportunity to truly make a lasting impact on the lives of melanoma patients for generations to come. This support will empower us to amplify our investments in critical research grants and initiatives. Your gift will be added to the MRF’s Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund, managed with care by the MRF’s Investment Committee. Each year, a portion of the endowment’s income is directed toward bolstering the MRF’s peer-reviewed research grant program. To learn more about our Legacy of Progress Endowment, please see page 34. Beneficiary Designation Non-probate assets such as an IRA or life insurance policy are not covered by your will or trust. Naming the Melanoma Research Foundation as a beneficiary will support our mission and leave a truly lasting impact.
IRA Charitable Rollover If you’re 70 1/2 years or older, consider making a gift to the MRF directly from your IRA through a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). In many cases, IRA giving is 100% tax-free for eligible donors and represents one of the smartest ways you can support the MRF’s work because it allows you to give and save. For those who must take Required Minimum Distributions (RMD), an IRA gift can also count towards your RMD, without counting toward your taxable income for the year! Stock Gifts Consider donating appreciated stock and securities to support melanoma research and care through the MRF. This method is both cost-effective and tax-smart. You could be eligible for a tax deduction based on the full fair-market value of your donation and avoid paying capital gains tax.
advantages and philanthropic flexibility, almost like a charitable investment account. By giving through your DAF you can give when you want and how often you want to support the MRF.
“I use my Donor Advised Fund because of tax advantages and the simplicity of designating gifts allowing me to give more and do it effortlessly. Funding my DAF with appreciated securities allows the resultant tax savings to be donated to charities. Funding multiple years worth of giving bundled into one year’s addition to my DAF allows me to itemize deductions in those years which, once again, allows me to add the tax savings to my giving.” — Mark Lerch
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Donor Support and Events
In 2025 we had 43 new CommUNITY Fundraising events to support our mission. Interested in hosting your own fundraising event? Please contact volunteer@melanoma.org for more information.
Featured CommUNITY Fundraisers
#GetNakedJax In October of 2025, the 5th annual #GetNakedJax event was held in Jacksonville, FL, at the illustrious TPC Sawgrass. This year, the event raised an incredible $244,638 thanks to generous donations, sponsorships and a live auction. These funds will support a Career Development Award for Dan Erkes, PhD, at Thomas Jefferson University for his project researching if pyroptosis may improve immunotherapy responses for melanoma patients. The impact of research was highlighted by the evening’s keynote speaker, Bill Daly, who spoke about his journey as a melanoma patient and thriver.
Stay Out of the Sun Run In May of 2025, the CommUNITY Fundraising program worked with the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, to put on the Stay Out of the Sun Run. With generous support from the Mayo Clinic, along with a passionate group of participants and donors, this successful 5K run raised over $18,000!
DC Wings of Hope Reception Our DC Wings of Hope event was revitalized this year, featuring a book signing reception with melanoma thriver, advocate, MRF Board Member and author Cheryl Stratos! In her book, Terminal Hope: How a Clinical Trial Saved My Life, Cheryl shares the powerful role that innovative research plays in transforming outcomes and expanding hope for patients and families.
Black and White Ball The Reese Ward Foundation, founded in memory of Cameron Reese Ward, held its inaugural Black and White Ball at the prestigious Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, NC. The MRF was one of two beneficiaries, receiving $100K to fund a Career Development Award to advance life-saving research efforts. The Ward family’s generosity and dedication allow the MRF to offer vital support to melanoma patients and families.
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Donor Support and Events
Bringing a Community Together Through Music: Jam For Cam In 2025, the MRF was the proud recipient of $120,000 toward its new pediatric melanoma initiative, SunAWARE TM , funded by Jam For Cam.
Jam For Cam was founded in the fall of 2018 in honor of Cameron Fearon, a University of Georgia student and Atlanta native. Cameron battled melanoma from the time he was diagnosed in his early teens until he passed away at the age of 19 in August 2018. Inspired by Cameron’s love for live music, a group of friends brought to life an event that they, with Cameron, had already begun working on: a battle-of-the-bands concert to showcase Athens’ vibrant and lively music scene. However, the event now centered around raising awareness and funds in the fight against melanoma.
In 2025, having grown significantly over the years, the festival moved from a local brewery to downtown Athens and debuted Jam In The Streets. With over 15,000 attendees and over $500K raised, the festival emphasizes the lasting impact of friendship, music and community.
“The SunAWARE TM program means a great deal to us at Jam For Cam, as it assists with two objectives that we care deeply about. The first being education and the second being awareness. As we continue to move forward, we want to promote the importance of getting our skin checked each year, in hopes to catch melanoma early.” — Ethan Suda, Member of the Board of Directors for Jam For Cam
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Donor Support and Events
Featured Corporate Partners
Natera In 2025, Natera, a residual disease testing company, significantly expanded their support of the MRF. They served as a national Grassroots Partner for our Miles for Melanoma 5K series, bringing patient education and giveaways to eight events nationwide. Natera also collaborated with the MRF on a melanoma awareness campaign in July and announced plans to fund a research grant in honor of one of their colleagues, a melanoma survivor who also lost her mother to the disease. Immunocore Immunocore, maker of Kimmtrak, the first and only FDA-approved treatment for metastatic ocular melanoma, continued their strong support of the MRF’s CURE OM programs. They once again showed up in a big way at our Philadelphia Miles for Melanoma 5K, and supported both the Eyes on a Cure OM patient meeting and the OM Global Science Meeting. This year, they further expanded their collaboration by supporting and presenting to the MRF’s Breakthrough Consortium and by supporting the development of the first animated patient video focused on ocular melanoma.
Coolibar After taking a few years off, Coolibar, a leader in the UPF clothing industry, returned as our National Miles for Melanoma Apparel Sponsor, providing more than 10,000 UPF shirts to runners and walkers. They also supported our annual Dermatology Alliance Council meeting at the American Academy of Dermatology conference and featured the MRF at their inaugural fashion show during NYC’s Fashion Week in fall 2025.
Glowbar Glowbar, a nationally located facial bar, partnered with the MRF in May 2025 to help educate their clients on the importance of not only achieving healthy, glowing skin, but also prioritizing melanoma prevention and early detection. Through this partnership, Glowbar shared messaging around regular self-exams and the importance of visiting a dermatologist, reinforcing the connection between skincare and overall skin health. In addition to in-clinic education, Glowbar showed their support in the community by participating in the DC Miles for Melanoma 5K and supporting our NYC gala.
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Donor Support and Events
Fostering Legacy: Lethal Melanoma Research Grant in Honor of Katie Morgan The MRF is proud to spotlight the 2025 Established Investigator Award recipient in honor of Katie Morgan: Lisa Cannon-Albright, PhD, from the University of Utah. This $200,000 grant will support groundbreaking research focused on lethal melanoma, the most aggressive form of this deadly cancer.
Scan the QR code to learn more about Lisa’s research.
Katie’s family shares: “Katie was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in 2021. Despite early detection in 2016 and following standard protocols, her disease progressed to a lethal form. Melanoma is a very sneaky disease, and it is crucial for researchers and doctors to distinguish patients with treatable melanoma from those at risk for lethal melanoma. Research is essential to identify these cases early and provide more aggressive, life-saving interventions.” Dr. Cannon-Albright’s work builds on this mission. Her
As Dr. Cannon-Albright explains: “We have shown that analysis of extended families that display a high-risk for cancer is a powerful approach to finding the genes responsible (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2, CDKN2A). Unique Utah resources, including a computerized genealogy of Utah from its founders and decades of family studies, have made this study of lethal melanoma families possible. We will identify the rare genetic variants inherited by affected cousins in these families as candidates for lethal melanoma
predisposition. Understanding how the genes we identify affect an individual’s risk for lethal melanoma can allow risk prediction, early diagnosis, development of new treatments and we hope it will eventually lead to prevention of this deadly outcome.” Katie’s story and this research underscore why early detection matters, but also why understanding lethal melanoma is essential. Your support in Katie’s memory funds research that could save lives, provide better treatments and help prevent others from experiencing the devastating impact of lethal melanoma.
team is studying families in Utah with unusually high rates of melanoma to uncover rare genetic changes that increase the risk of dying from the disease. By analyzing DNA from relatives in these high-risk families and comparing it to large public datasets, her research aims to identify the genes responsible for lethal melanoma. Discovering these genes will help doctors predict who is most at risk, catch melanoma earlier, develop new treatments and ultimately prevent fatal outcomes.
32 • Stewardship Report
Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund
33 • Stewardship Report
Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund
Why the Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund? • Provides donors with a profound opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of melanoma patients for generations. • Allows donors to leverage their support with that of others to accelerate research progress. • Empowers the MRF to amplify our investments in critical grants and initiatives. • Enables the MRF to engage in a dedicated and sustained effort to support investigation into the most daunting medical challenges and foster collaborations in the field. Your funds, entrusted to our Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund, are managed with utmost care, employing conservative and professional expertise overseen by the MRF’s diligent Investment Committee. Why Contribute Now? Given the continued uncertainty of federal support for cancer research, it is more important than ever to have a substantial guaranteed base of funding dedicated solely to research. With this fund, we can guarantee that vital research will not be hindered by political or economic uncertainty and that we can continue the search for better treatments and, one day, a cure for melanoma. Each year, a portion of the Endowment’s income is directed toward bolstering the MRF’s peer-reviewed research grant program. This program is spearheaded by a highly accomplished team of esteemed melanoma clinician-scientists, ensuring that your contribution is strategically utilized to advance our shared mission. Your support isn’t just an investment; it’s a promise of a brighter, melanoma-free future.
The Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund was launched on November 1, 2023 to provide long-term financial support for melanoma research, no matter what challenges the future may bring.
We are happy to announce that, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, as of January 2026, we have reached $6.5M in funding. In 2025 we were able to give our first grant using funds generated by the endowment investment — Dr. Emily Bernstein’s Established Investigator Award titled, “Investigating
the Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Remodeling the Melanoma Tumor Microenvironment.” Dr. Bernstein’s research will examine the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME), specifically cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), to better tailor melanoma treatments for melanoma patients.
“I recall talking about the need for recurring revenue and recurring access to research funds. And the best way to go about that is through an endowment, something that throws off income every year so we don’t have to start from zero in our quest for research dollars every year. The concept of a long-term vehicle to fund recurring research is really the goal here. The endowment provides the ability for someone to make an investment that will basically survive long-term, and contribute long-term to research that is going to cure this disease.” — Tom Westdyk, MRF Board Member
“I think that my melanoma experience has really made my mission to move research forward and the endowment was a good investment to do that. More Americans than not are affected by skin cancer but even if
you’re not affected by melanoma directly, the research that goes into melanoma has led to developments in brain cancer, ovarian cancer,
We invite you to watch this brief video featuring Endowment Fund Founders, as they share the immense value of this initiative.
breast cancer. It has really been the proving ground to changing the way we fight cancer.”
— Cheryl Stratos, MRF Board Member
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Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund
Your Legacy Each member of the Legacy of Progress Society will have a unique opportunity to invest in supporting critical research grants and initiatives to advance melanoma treatment options and ultimately a cure through this endowment campaign.
Transformational Pioneer Society
Legacy Ambassador Society
Cure Visionary Society
Healing Benefactor Society
Lifesaver Patron Society
Discovery Champion Society
Hope Advocate Society $25,000
$50,000
$75,000
$100,000
$250,000
$500,000
In memory of Douglas Garibaldi $1,000,000
In honor of Timothy Samual (Tim) Bailey*
In memory of Bieganik*
Stan and Aviva Adler
The Carrie Blessing Fund*
In memory of Jeffrey Fulton*
In memory of Bruce and Carol Copeland from their children*
George and Artemis Calomiris*
Steven Appelbaum
John D. Bowlin*
The Nash Family
The Drefnew Foundation
The B6 Fund*
Leanne and Richard Tavoso Terry and Doug Brodman*
Honoring Richard Arthur Draeger from his family*
In memory of Cy Gruberg*
Bill Toler*
In memory of Aaron Laandenberger*
James and Kimberly Flanders*
Mark Weinziel*
In honor of Etai Gamliel
In memory of Arthur Winner*
Barry Jones, DDS* Dan Kortick* Dr. Alison Martin in memory of Randy Lomax* In memory of Gerard Schoken* Michael and Cheryl Stratos* In memory of Robert J. Werner The Westdyk family in honor of
Christopher Westdyk* Jeff and Jill Wrobel*
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* Legacy of Progress Founding Member
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