CPRIT in the News
Chairman Mansour’s Remarks, Baylor College of Medicine Commencement Ceremony, May 24, 2011
James Mansour, chairman of the oversight committee of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, was recognized for his leadership and support of CPRIT's work to reduce the burden of cancer on humanity with an honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities in Medicine from Baylor College of Medicine.
Honorary Degree for Jimmy Mansour
Baylor College of Medicine
5/24/11
"I know time is short and I appreciate the opportunity to say a few brief words. I am truly humble by this great honor. The Baylor College of Medicine is one of the greatest academic health centers not only to Texas but indeed throughout the world. To be recognized by such an outstanding institution is an honor for which I will forever be grateful.
I am also honored to be on the stage with my co-recipients: Dr. Montell, Captain Kerwin and Dr. Mendelsohn. I especially want to thank Dr. Mendelsohn for the pivotal role he played in the creation of CPRIT, the organization I have the privilege to lead.
In addition, I would like to acknowledge the presence tonight of many of the men and women who are the lifeblood of CPRIT: Bill Gimson, Dr. Rebecca Garcia, Dr. Al Gilman, Jerry Cobbs, our anchors, Heidi McConnell and Kristen Doyle and, the 19 other outstanding individuals who have built one of the finest cancer prevention and research organizations in the country. Though I am being honored tonight, it is they who have made CPRIT the success it is.
My comments will be very brief because this day is not about any of us sitting on this stage, but instead the realization of the dreams of everyone of you in cap and gown, and the loved ones who supported you along the way to this great achievement.
I have no doubt that each and every one of you will be successful…be it in medicine or research. You are among the best of the best. You have proven yourselves through a rigorous program of study and residency.
But let me leave you with simply one thought. At some point in your life, you will get a call, and during that conversation, there will be a request: that you volunteer your time, and use your knowledge and expertise, to serve others.
I ask, as you formulate the many reasons why you cannot take on this new challenge, that you simply say, “yes.”
I got that call. I was asked to be a part of a new institute that would spend $3 billion to save lives from the most deadly disease worldwide…cancer.
And I knew in my heart of hearts there was a reason they called. And I knew I couldn’t say “no,” because families like mine were in need of the kind of life-saving research the people of Texas had envisioned.
I’m not a doctor. I’m not a scientist. …but I am the husband of a breast cancer survivor. My wife Sarah – the light of my life – is with us today. She is a testament to the possibilities of science and advanced treatment protocols, which provided a successful outcome.
Ever since getting that call, I have devoted much time and effort to organizing this initiative and making sure we fund the best research by the best researchers, and the most promising prevention programs.
Of all the things I have done in business…all of the financial rewards I have earned by working hard…none of it compares to the joy I have received by volunteering my time for something worthwhile.
The greatest rewards are realized when we give ourselves to others. I do not know what your calling will be, but it is my hope and prayer that when you receive the call, you accept it. Our lives are fuller when the gifts we have are willingly shared with others.
Congratulations to you and your families. Do well. God bless you…each and every one of you."
