The Berger Lecture on Cancer: Dr. Rick Kittles

1705 College Street,Columbia SC 29208

04 April, 2023

Description

The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of South Carolina is pleased to welcome Dr. Rick Kittles for his talk "Reimagining Health Equity in the Era of Precision Medicine." The promise of precision medicine in the delivery of health care is clear. However, the lack of inclusion of diverse populations in this data driven era of genomic research and development has the troubling potential to further widen existing health disparities. Given our investment of resources and potential impact on patient health, it is imperative that future plans proactively include diverse populations, taking into consideration ancestry and the sociocultural environment to develop more transparent models, and advance precision medicine more holistically. This will ensure that scientific advances are impactful for all population groups by harnessing innovations in precision medicine to help reduce and eventually eliminate health disparities. Guests are welcome to join us at 5:30 p.m. for a pre-reception. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is suggested. About Dr. Rick Kittles Rick Kittles, Ph.D., is the inaugural Senior Vice President for Research at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Kittles was previously Professor and founding Director of the Division of Health Equities within the Department of Population Sciences at the City of Hope (COH) and Associate Director of Health Equities of COH Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Kittles is also Co-founder and Scientific Director of African Ancestry, Inc. Dr. Kittles serves on many national and international steering committees and advisory boards. He has been a member of the Board of Scientific Counselors (BSC) for the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI/NIH) and is Past Council Chair of the Minorities in Cancer Research (MICR) of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). He has been at the forefront of the development of genetic markers for ancestry and how genetic ancestry can be used in studies on disease risk and outcomes. In March of 2012 Dr.Kittles presented the Keynote Address to the United Nations General Assembly, “International Day of Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.” He received a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from George Washington University in 1998. He has published over 260 research articles and is well known for his research on prostate cancer and health disparities among African Americans. Parking Metered spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. Meters are free after 6 p.m. About the Berger Lecture on Cancer This lectureship, established by Mr. Harris Berger on behalf of the Berger family, honors his brother, Dr. Franklin G. Berger, for his hard work and dedication throughout a 35-year teaching and research career within the Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts & Sciences, at the University of South Carolina. It especially recognizes his passionate and tireless efforts in the establishment and success of the Center for Colon Cancer Research and the Colorectal Cancer Prevention Network, both of which have made significant advances against colorectal cancer. The annual lecture promotes the exchange of scientific knowledge and research that fosters further progress in the battle against cancer. All attendees are expected to adhere to the Carolinian Creed and the Gamecocks Code of Conduct. Carolinian Creed I will practice personal and academic integrity; I will respect the dignity of all persons; I will respect the rights and property of others; I will discourage bigotry, while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas and opinions; I will demonstrate concern for others, their feelings, and their need for the conditions which support their work and development. Gamecocks Code of Conduct - Conduct themselves in a manner that represents their University with honor, dignity, and respect - Not use vulgar, abusive, racist, sexist, demeaning, or intimidating language at any time - Treat the panelists, event staff, and other patrons with courtesy and respect at all times - Demonstrate the qualities of civility at all times - Not engage in language that is vulgar, crass, or demeaning - Refrain from becoming belligerent or engaging in disruptive behavior - Be a positive role model for those around them by treating others with courtesy and respect Noncompliance with the code may result in ejection from the event.