New St. Jude CEO Dr. Charles Roberts says childhood cancer treatments are at ‘the dawn of a new era’

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has appointed Dr. Charles W. M. Roberts as its new president and chief executive officer, replacing Dr. James R. Downing, who led the organization for 12 years. Roberts, who has been the director of St. Jude's Comprehensive Cancer Center and an executive vice president, will begin his new role on January 1st.

Roberts, a researcher, clinician, and passionate advocate for the mission, expressed his excitement about the hospital's progress and potential. "I'm really excited because I think we are at the dawn of a new era," he said, adding that the next several years hold a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to achieve more of Danny Thomas's dream of making childhood cancer easily treatable.

Technological advancements are creating more effective treatments for childhood cancers while minimizing their impact on patients. Roberts also believes that major strides toward his goal of treating all childhood cancers easily are within reach. He continues to conduct research, confirming that certain genes can suppress tumor growth, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other researchers in steering the hospital's priorities.

Downing, who recruited Roberts from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2015, praised him as a unique combination of physician, researcher, and leader. Roberts plans to maintain his research focus while serving as CEO, acknowledging that donations from ALSAC, the hospital's fundraising arm, are crucial in helping St. Jude continue its mission of providing free treatment to patients and expanding its services globally.