For more than three decades, Dr. Russel Kaufman has been at the forefront of America's war on cancer. From his work in the medical laboratory to his role as CEO, Dr. Kaufman is the epitome of professional achievement in cancer research.

Following his graduation from Ohio State, Kaufman began his residency in internal medicine at Duke University Medical Center, where he is now an emeritus professor of medicine and biochemistry.

Kaufman's distinguished and extensive list of accomplishments at Duke includes his work as chief resident, division chief of medical oncology, vice chair of the Department of Medicine, and vice dean for education and academic affairs, among many other leadership appointments.

"His academic career in cancer research and national service is truly extraordinary," wrote Scott Gibson, executive vice dean for administration at Duke, in his nomination. "He has been a 'bridging scientist' in terms of his experience in both basic and applied (translational) cancer research and has served as an adviser to the National Institutes of Health and the American Cancer Society."

Since 2002, Kaufman has been president and CEO of the Wistar Institute, an independent, nonprofit biomedical research organization in Philadelphia. He also continues his hands-on work in the field by heading a research program that investigates the genetics of blood diseases and cancer.

"Kaufman's dedication has made an impact on his community," said Thomas Morr, president and CEO of Select Greater Philadelphia. "He has also been a pace-setter, serving in leadership advisory roles for the Greater Philadelphia Life Sciences Congress, the University City Science Center, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, BioAdvance-Biotechnology Greenhouse Corporation of Southeastern Pennsylvania, and several others."

Throughout his career, Kaufman has published original work on the hematopoietic system and has maintained editorial positions on publications including the New England Journal of Medicine, Duke Cancer Reports, Blood Journal, and Duke Med Magazine.

Kaufman is affiliated with numerous organizations and committees and has served in national leadership roles for several medical organizations. Among them, he is chair of the American Cancer Society's Council for Extramural Grants; chair of the academic affairs committee, University of the Arts; and co-chair of the Venture Capital-Commercialization Working Group, Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, CEO Council for Growth.

His work has been recognized by numerous societies, including the March of Dimes, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America, and the American Cancer Society.

While Kaufman's professional achievements are many, his friends and colleagues also know him as a "warm and generous" person graced with "humor and humility."