Christopher Lieu, MD, Named Vice Chair of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network

University of Colorado Cancer Center Associate Director of Clinical Research, Christopher Lieu, MD, is bringing his wealth of expertise and dedication to a new role as the Vice Chair of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).

For the past thirteen years, Lieu has been an investigator on numerous CU Cancer Center studies, including taking the lead on early-onset colorectal cancer research. Lieu received the National Cancer Institute Cancer Clinical Investigator Team Leadership Award in 2017 and his work focuses on Gastrointestinal Cancers, Drug Development (Experimental Therapeutics), Clinical Trials, and Translational Research.

His journey to leadership within the NCCN reflects a deep commitment to advancing patient care, education, and research in oncology. As Vice-Chair of the NCCN Board of Directors, Lieu will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cancer care globally.

The NCCN is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, efficient, and accessible cancer care so patients can live better lives. They develop evidence-based guidelines for oncology care, provide education and training programs for healthcare professionals, and conduct research to improve cancer treatment and outcomes.

We had the privilege of discussing with Lieu the significance of NCCN membership, his motivation for pursuing a leadership role, and the impact of his appointment on the CU Cancer Center's mission of innovation and leadership in cancer care and research.

What is the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)? What does it mean to be one of the 33 cancer centers part of the NCCN?

The NCCN is a group of 33 cancer centers focused on advancing patient care, education, and research. NCCN is known for its outstanding guidelines that promote cutting-edge resources and technology to improve cancer care and prevention. Being part of NCCN is a distinct honor, reflecting the excellence of the University of Colorado in patient care, education, and research. It means our Cancer Center is part of establishing the best care possible across the globe. And I think that that's a pretty tremendous impact.

What motivated you to pursue a leadership role within the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)?

Before becoming Vice Chair of the board, I was involved with NCCN as our institution's representative to the neuroendocrine tumors panel. Later, as the Associate Director of Clinical Research, I joined the Board of Directors and eventually became Vice Chair. This journey has provided valuable insights into NCCN's structure and governance.

It's a wonderful group of leaders to work with, and I thought that this would be an opportunity for me to not only learn, but also to have a more active role in continuing to improve cancer care at every level.

How does the appointment reflect the CU Cancer Center's commitment to innovation and leadership in cancer care and research?

CU's involvement in NCCN demonstrates its dedication to improving cancer care and prevention. We're in a select group of institutions that are tasked with driving care forward in a way that helps people. That’s a big honor and a big responsibility.

It's more about serving the member institutions and learning from the group's phenomenal leaders. I've had great mentors who taught me about structure, organization, and leadership qualities. Mentorship and leadership at the CU Cancer Center have played a crucial role in my development.

What opportunities does this role provide for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among leading cancer centers and experts?

In terms of collaboration, the focus is on working with other institutions to drive care forward. Being a part of NCCN allows us to standardize cancer care nationally and potentially globally. It also provides greater access to educational resources and supports young investigators. Additionally, our involvement in NCCN's guidelines committees, webinars, and lectures helps advocate for improved access to high-quality care.

How might this appointment enhance the CU Cancer Center's ability to advocate for improved access to high-quality cancer care?

Overall, our roles in NCCN are about serving, learning, and contributing to the advancement of cancer care and research on a global scale. It's a distinct honor to be part of such a prestigious group, and it suggests that the patient care, education, and research that the University of Colorado Cancer Center is doing is impacting patients everywhere, and we can really make a difference and make changes in cancer care that can lead to better outcomes.