Huskies for a Cure: CVI Joins UW Athletics in the Fight Against Cancer

Photos from the October 23rd event include: Dr. Nora Disis (CVI Director), Dr. Robert Jones (University of Washington President), Dr. Lynn Hassan Jones, Dr. Tim Dellit (UW Medicine CEO), Jean Enersen (Former KING5 News Anchor), Pramila Jayapal (US House of Representatives), Susan Bevan (CVI Development Council Member)

October was a powerful month at the University of Washington, as Husky Athletics partnered with the Huskies for a Cure campaign to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Across women’s soccer, men’s soccer, volleyball, and football, athletes, fans, and the broader UW community came together to celebrate survivors, honor lives lost, and recognize medical professionals who are changing the future of cancer care.

At the October 25 football game against Illinois, Husky Stadium was alive with energy and purpose. Dr. Nora Disis, Director of the Cancer Vaccine Institute, spoke at the President’s pregame reception at Conibear Shellhouse, sharing with supporters and university leaders how lifesaving cancer vaccines are on the horizon and poised to transform the way we treat and prevent cancer. Her message underscored the importance of research and innovation in shaping a cancer‑free future.

The CVI team, joined by local survivors and their families, had the honor of cheering alongside the Husky football players as they ran onto the field. Dr. Disis was also featured in a video played on the stadium’s big screen, reminding thousands of fans that groundbreaking science is happening right here at UW. The Huskies capped off the day with a decisive 42–25 victory over Illinois, making the celebration even more memorable.

This campaign carried moments of joy and poignancy. Mia Hamant, goalkeeper for the UW women’s soccer team, sounded the siren to start the football game—a gesture of strength and solidarity. Just weeks later, Mia tragically passed away from a rare form of kidney cancer. Her courage and presence at Huskies for a Cure will remain a lasting reminder of why this work matters so deeply.

We are grateful to Husky Athletics, donors, and fans for their support throughout October. By standing together on the field and in the community, we honor those touched by cancer and reaffirm our commitment to advancing research that saves lives. At the Cancer Vaccine Institute, we are proud to be part of this movement and inspired by the collective spirit that drives us closer to a world without cancer.