Jackson Jambalaya

 Annie Oeth authored this press release for the University of Mississippi Medical Center on October 22. 

Elected officials and donors joined with medical leaders to break ground on a new multi-story home for theCancer Center and Research Institute at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, marking a major milestone in the state’s commitment to expanding cancer care, research and prevention. 

The new CCRI will bring together patient care, clinical trials, research laboratories, supportive services and specialized training under one roof, strengthening Mississippi’s ability to deliver advanced, multidisciplinary cancer care close to home. The space is designed to enhance patient experience while supporting the CCRI’s growing team of clinicians, scientists and staff members. 

“Mississippians need the highest level of cancer care and access to the latest clinical trials right here at home,” said Dr. LouAnn Woodward, vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.  

Mississippi has cancer incidence and mortality rates that are among the nation's highest, according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics. 

The Cancer Center will serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration, providing state-of-the-art space for cancer specialists across disciplines. Its design will support expanded clinical services, improved efficiency for patients and families, and room for continued program growth in the years ahead. 

"This cancer center shows what's possible when federal and state support and private philanthropy are aligned," said Dr. Glenn Boyce, University of Mississippi chancellor.  

The cancer center's construction is funded in part through It's About Time: The Campaign for the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute, a $125 million philanthropic campaign that has raised more than 80% of its goal. 

Sandy and John Black launched the campaign with a $25 million donation. 

"John and I have been truly honored with good fortune, and we are truly honored to give back to our community," Sandy Black said.  

"We're so proud to have played a role in the progress on this," John Black said, "and we give our thanks to the executive branch and legislative leaders of our state government and our congressional leaders. None of this would be happening without you." 

The project aligns with the Medical Center's long-term goal of earning National Cancer Institute designation, a first for the state. National Cancer Institute designation brings expanded access to clinical trials, advanced treatments and coordinated, research‑driven care that improves long‑term survival for cancer patients.

"This federal designation will allow UMMC to have access to more treatments, cures, drugs, trials, diagnostics and therapeutics," said Dr. Alan Jones, associate vice chancellor for health affairs. "These goals of building this center and achieving NCI designation will change the trajectory of the health of Mississippians forever." 

Dr. Rod Rocconi, Ergon Chair for Cancer Research and CCRI director, said UMMC's goals in cancer care and research are centered on giving every Mississippian access to the highest level of treatment, and advancing discovery that improves outcomes. 

"Everyone is affected in some way by cancer, either personally or a friend, a colleague or a family member," Rocconi said. "This building is for all of you. You can come to one place and receive the best care, equal to that of anywhere in the world. When someone hears the phrase, 'You have cancer,' it's arguably the worst moment in their life. We're here to show them there's hope, and there's hope right here in Mississippi." 

Jesse Robinson, a renowned Mississippi bluesman who performed at the ceremony, knows the importance of having advanced cancer care close to home. 

"The care that I got from UMMC was A1," said Robinson, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer seven years ago. "This new center will help more people get the cancer care they need." 

Members of Mississippi's congressional delegation and state leaders, on hand to help break ground on the project, voiced their support. 

Sen. Roger Wicker: "We have an ambition to get National Cancer Institute designation. We haven't gotten it yet, but we are setting the stage.” 

Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith: “I want the next generation to be the generation that passes by here and says, 'Remember when cancer used to be this huge problem in Mississippi and the country.'” 

U.S. Rep. Michael Guest: “Cancer impacts all Mississippians regardless of race, party, gender, social standing or economic status. Today we begin a new chapter in our battle against cancer." 

Gov. Tate Reeves: “The greatest return on this investment will not be measured in dollars and cents. It will be measured in lives saved. Here in our state, world-class people deserve world-class cancer care, and they deserve to receive it right here at home." 

Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann: “We can now have people fight this disease here, without having to travel hundreds of miles. We're moving forward with an investment not in dollars but in humans." 

Mississippi House Speaker Jason White: "Today marks an extraordinary moment for not only the University of Mississippi Medical Center but for our state. As we gather for the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute's groundbreaking, we're not just turning some soil today. We are turning a new page on a story of hope, resilience and quality health care for our people."