On February 24, 2026, The Cary Council gathered at UT Southwestern Medical Center to launch a new year of programming and philanthropic impact, welcoming first-time attendees and celebrating the momentum behind early-stage research at UT Southwestern.
Honoring a Legacy of Impact
Vice Chair Lili Clark opened the evening by recognizing the Council’s roots and the legacy of the late Dr. Edward H. Cary, whose vision continues to inspire support for medical education and scientific discovery. With Dr. Cary’s birthday approaching on February 28, the program offered a fitting reminder of why this community comes together. Clark also shared a major milestone: since its founding, The Cary Council has awarded 24 early-stage research grants of $50,000, helping influence $30 million in follow-on funding for early-stage research.
Campus Progress and What’s Next
Amanda Billings, Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations at UT Southwestern, provided updates on major initiatives shaping the future of care and discovery, including the Texas Behavioral Health Center, the Center for Cellular Therapies and Cancer Immunology, and an Innovation Hub designed to help move UT Southwestern discoveries into real-world patient impact.
Spotlight on Cancer Research: Awareness, Prevention, and Innovation
Featured speaker Emina Huang, M.D., addressed the alarming rise of early-onset colorectal cancer, noting increasing rates among people under 50 and emphasizing the importance of screening, recognizing persistent symptoms, and staying active.
Heather McArthur, M.D., shared how immunotherapy and clinical trials are changing the trajectory of breast cancer outcomes, underscoring the role of research in improving survival and moving promising treatments forward.
Photo Gallery: The Cary Council Kickoff 2026
Relive highlights from the evening, including our featured speakers and moments of connection as members gathered to kick off an impactful year.
Learn More About The Cary Council
The Cary Council’s mission is to inspire the next generation of philanthropic leaders and drive meaningful change in health care. Through connections with like-minded advocates, The Cary Council is making a profound impact on medical progress through its focus and support for early-stage research.
