During ASCO 2026, the cancer care community came together at the historic Palmer House in Chicago for an unforgettable evening celebrating the 2026 Class of 40 Under 40 in Cancer.
Selected from more than 2,800 nominees, this year’s honorees represent the very best of what the next generation of cancer leadership has to offer. Their work spans academic medicine, biotechnology, patient navigation, digital health, policy, and community‑based care, each contributing in meaningful ways to improving outcomes and elevating the patient experience. View the full list of 2026 honorees.
Honoring Our Trailblazers
This year also marked a milestone for the program with the introduction of the Lifetime Cancer Maverick Award, a new honor created to recognize visionary leaders whose careers have fundamentally advanced the field of oncology and inspired generations of clinicians, researchers, and advocates.
We were proud to present this inaugural award to three trailblazers whose impact is felt across the cancer ecosystem:
- William McGivney, PhD, Managing Partner, McGivney Global Advisors; Past CEO, NCCN
- Barbara McAneny, MD, Past President, American Medical Association; CEO, New Mexico Cancer Center
- Steven Rosen, MD, FACP, FASCO, FAIMBE, Executive Vice President, City of Hope
Their lifelong dedication, leadership, and innovation has improved the lives of countless patients and families. Honoring them alongside the 40 Under 40 in Cancer awardees created a powerful moment of reflection on the past, present, and future of cancer care.
A Note of Gratitude
The evening provided the opportunity to highlight individual achievements as well as the shared mission that unites the cancer community: to advance science, improve care, and support every patient and family facing a cancer diagnosis.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all our supporters who share this mission and who helped make this event possible.
And to the many colleagues, nominators, mentors, and institutions who champion the rising leaders shaping the future of cancer care, thank you for helping us celebrate their achievements.
Congratulations to all of our honorees. Your work inspires us, and your impact is felt across the cancer community and beyond.