On November 9th, 2023, a small group of USC Norris faculty and friends of USC Norris came together to celebrate half a century of exceptional accomplishments in groundbreaking science and cancer care–the 50th anniversary of USC Norris.

Fifty years ago, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center as one of the nation’s first eight comprehensive cancer centers. In the five decades since, USC Norris has remained steadfast at the forefront of the battle against cancer, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. Since its inception in 1973, USC Norris has remained committed to eradicating the burden of cancer through innovative research. From uncovering the genetic underpinnings of various cancers to developing targeted therapies, the USC Norris research team has revolutionized cancer treatment and provided hope to patients and their families across the globe.

Today, more than at any other time in USC Norris’ 50-year history, we have the opportunity to achieve the simple yet powerful vision of Kenneth T. Norris Jr. to “make cancer a disease of the past.”