<p>In this special episode of Real Cancer Talk, recorded live from the <strong><em>2026 American Association for Cancer Research</em></strong> (AACR) Annual Meeting in San Diego, <strong>Dr. Rob Winn</strong> sits down with <strong>Dr. Monica Baskin</strong> to discuss the intersection of cutting-edge science and community impact.</p><p>Dr. Baskin shares the impact of conferences like the AACR Annual Meeting and others have impacted her career. Against the backdrop of the meeting's theme, "Precision, Partnership, Purpose," they explore how the latest global breakthroughs in cancer research are being brought home to the communities served by the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.</p><p><strong>About Dr. Monica Baskin</strong></p><p>Monica L. Baskin, Ph.D., is the interim director of the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, a role she assumed in the spring of 2026. A renowned expert in community outreach and engagement, Dr. Baskin also serves as the deputy director of research at Massey and associate dean for cancer innovation in the VCU School of Medicine. </p><p>Her research focuses on community-engaged approaches to cancer prevention, specifically addressing lifestyle factors like healthy eating and physical activity to reduce cancer disparities. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for ensuring that the benefits of scientific discovery reach all populations, particularly those in underserved rural and urban areas.</p><p><strong>Massey Website:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://masseycancercenter.org">https://masseycancercenter.org</a></p><p><strong>Facebook:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/VCUMasseyCancerCenter/">/vcumasseycancercenter</a></p><p><strong>Instagram:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/vcumassey/">@vcumassey</a></p><p>VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America’s cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care.</p><p>Working across all types of cancer, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.</p><p>Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000+ researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective ways to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer.</p><p>For more information, visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://masseycancercenter.org">masseycancercenter.org</a> or call 877-4-MASSEY.</p>