University of Iowa Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center

08/12/2026

Learning from leaders in the field and gaining hands-on experience with complex cancer model systems.

Holden post-baccalaureate researchers Bogdan Buzdugan and Nurgul Koyuncu were among 16 American Cancer Society-funded fellows selected to participate in a specialized workshop at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine. The two gained practical experience in the JAX training lab and attended the 34th Annual Short Course on Experimental Models of Human Cancer alongside some of the world’s leading experts.

We are proud to see our trainees representing Holden and building skills that will shape the future of cancer research.

08/05/2026

Our Office of Cancer Career Enhancement and Training was thrilled to exhibit at Community STEM Day, co-hosted by Collins Aerospace and the Southeast Iowa STEM Region. The event brought together students, families, educators, and community organizations to showcase STEM opportunities available throughout Iowa and encourage future career exploration.

07/30/2026

For the second consecutive summer, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Belin-Blank Center at the University of Iowa partnered to provide a professional development opportunity for educators in the Jumpstarting Student Research Fellowship.

As part of this experience, STEM educators from various school districts in Iowa toured the labs of cancer center members and attended presentations given by our summer undergraduate researchers.

This week, educators in the Jumpstarting Student Research Fellowship attended a two-day summer course focused on integrating scientific research into middle and high school classrooms. Led by the The University of Iowa College of Education Baker Teacher Leader Center and the Belin-Blank Center, the Fellowship program helps teachers incorporate research and individual research projects into their classrooms.

We’re grateful to have welcomed Jon Markus Adel DeSoto Minburn Community School District, Jared Almandinger Waukee Community School District , Herky University of Iowa , Michelle Delvaux NCSD Cardinals, Dani Reagle Clinton Community School District, Jacob Flanagan Iowa City Community School District , Carey Dieleman University of Iowa Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jen Poole Ankeny Schools Community Engagement, Kathy McGrane West Des Moines Community Schools, Marci Denney New London Community School District to this week’s fellowship program!

07/24/2026

Dr. Mauro was recently featured on KWQC as part of a University of Iowa Health Care monthly community education series. During the segment, he discussed the role of radiation oncology in modern cancer care, the importance of cancer prevention and early detection, and how patients in the Quad Cities can access advanced radiation oncology services at UI Health Care's Bettendorf–Kimberly Road clinic.

07/23/2026

Through a Johnson County 4-H Civic Engagement Project, Abe and Madison created and donated handmade port pillows to support patients receiving cancer treatment at Holden.

Inspired by their mom's work in our infusion suite, they identified a simple but meaningful way to help make treatment journeys a little more comfortable. Designed for patients with implanted ports, the pillows help cushion the area and reduce pressure from seat belts while riding in the car. Their project is a reminder of the positive impact community members of all ages can have on patient care.

07/16/2026

A sweet way to say thank you. 🍨☀️

Yesterday, we hosted a Scoops of Gratitude sundae bar to thank the incredible employees who make the cancer center the best place to work, learn, and provide care. We loved seeing so many team members stop by to enjoy a sweet treat and connect with colleagues.

07/02/2026

The future of cancer research was on full display at the 2026 Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center Annual Research Retreat.

Researchers, clinicians, and trainees from across Holden came together to share discoveries, exchange ideas, and highlight the collaborative work advancing cancer research and patient care.

06/24/2026

Congratulations to Erin Sieh on receiving the Blood Cancer United: Hematology–Oncology Social Worker of the Year Award from the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW).

This national recognition honors Erin’s exceptional commitment to patient-centered care, advocacy, and compassionate support for individuals and families affected by blood cancers. She is dedicated to addressing the unique needs of patients and caregivers, mentoring colleagues, and connecting families with valuable resources.

06/19/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us last night for an unforgettable evening celebrating 25 years of Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.

We are grateful to our patients, families, supporters, faculty, staff, researchers, and community partners who have helped shape our story over the past quarter century.

Special thanks to Ed Kempf and Dan Kempf, Graze Gourmet To-Go, the FunkDaddies, R&D Events, Every Bloomin' Thing, Michelle Altmaier, and the many individuals behind the scenes who helped make the evening so memorable.

Here's to the progress we've made together—and the work still ahead.

06/19/2026

Congratulations to the 2025–2026 Iowa Cancer Research Experience (ICARE) postbac fellows on completing the program. 🎉

Over the past year, these fellows have contributed to cancer research and public health while preparing for the next steps in their academic and professional careers. We celebrate their accomplishments and wish them continued success as they take the next step in their careers and training.