The Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA)
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and it is also one of the cancers whose incidence is increasing fastest in this country. In 2007, melanoma touched the lives of Debra and Leon Black when Debra was diagnosed with the disease. With melanoma incidence rising dramatically and survival for those with advanced disease remaining static at less than 15 percent, the Blacks worked with Mike Milken to launch the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) under the auspices of the Milken Institute. The goal is simple: accelerate progress toward a cure. MRA finds and funds cutting-edge translational research worldwide and is the largest non-government funder of melanoma research in the US.
MRA is also focused on increasing public knowledge about the seriousness of melanoma and ways to reduce risk and improve early detection. Through a unique partnership with Bruce Springsteen and the Danny Fund, MRA launched a series of public awareness initiatives urging people to be aware of the dangers of the sun, take precautions, and be checked regularly by a dermatologist. We continue to explore and engage in creative partnerships designed to advance our mission and defeat melanoma.
MRA is built on a solid foundation of exemplary leadership – from its Board of Directors, to its leadership team, to its scientific program staff. In late 2009, Wendy K.D. Selig became MRA’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Wendy came to MRA from the American Cancer Society and before that Capitol Hill, bringing 20 years of experience working on public policy, organizational development and collaboration to accelerate the fight against cancer. With our leadership in place, MRA is moving forward to forge strategic collaborations in pursuit of better outcomes for melanoma patients and those at risk.
With one American dying every hour from advanced melanoma, the urgency of this work is clear. It is our hope that you share our commitment to better prevent, diagnose, treat and ultimately cure melanoma. With your support, MRA comes one step closer to finding a cure.
Download the State of Melanoma Research Call to Action Meeting white paper
2009 Scientific Research Retreat Presentations