Cancer researcher honored by Charlotte International Cabinet
For her entrepreneurial approach and scientific discoveries, UNC Charlotte distinguished cancer researcher Pinku Mukherjee has received the “Charlotte International Cabinet Patrick McCrory International Entrepreneur Award.”
As the Irwin Belk Endowed Professor of Cancer Research at UNC Charlotte, Mukherjee is transforming the ways in which cancer is diagnosed and treated. She has designed innovative approaches to more accurately detect breast cancer early and is developing targeted therapy and imaging for pancreatic, ovarian and colon cancers.
She also has shared her discoveries with her students and embodies the spirit of an internationally minded entrepreneur, the cabinet noted in presenting the honor.
This is the latest accolade for Mukherjee, who was honored a year ago with the O. Max Gardner Award – the highest faculty accolade given by the UNC Board of Governors. The award, established by a provision in the will of Gardner, recognizes UNC system faculty members who have “made the greatest contribution to the welfare of the human race.”
Mukherjee and other Charlotte International Cabinet award recipients were honored recently at the 19th annual Mayor’s International Community Awards (MICA) ceremony at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
The MICA awards recognize the contributions of the international community in the Charlotte region. The Charlotte International Cabinet sponsors the community awards as a collaborative program with the Office of the Mayor and the Office of International Relations.
Other award winners were Mike Hawley, who received the Richard Vinroot International Achievement Award for his role as director and past chairman of the World Affairs Council and in promoting economic development within the international community in Charlotte.
Maha Gingrich received the Global Leader Award as an exemplary role model as a successful entrepreneur and for working to bring international educational, cultural and business opportunities to the region through various programs, including Dances of India.
Foreign-owned businesses that received awards were Stantac, small business, Canada; Chion, medium business, Germany; and Rack Room Shoes, large business, Germany.