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In the fall of 2023, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the (the U) and (UVU) launched an innovative partnership, the HCI-UVU Health Collaborative. This initiative offers UVU students hands-on experience in cancer research, cancer center professional services, and clinical volunteer services—providing mentorship and real-world training to shape the next generation of health care leaders.
“I feel like it's a win-win for both the institution as well as Utah Valley University.”
Jackie Riley
The HCI-UVU Health Collaborative enhances education and career readiness. This partnership highlights the value of academic collaboration in shaping skilled and compassionate health care professionals.
“The collaborative is an important part of Huntsman Cancer Institute's commitment to provide students here in the state of Utah the opportunity to learn about our advanced cancer research and care and to explore a career in the field,” says , head of academic affairs at Huntsman Cancer Institute and professor and chair of oncological sciences at the U, a key figure in the collaboration. “So, we welcome these talented UVU students to Huntsman Cancer Institute and hope they learn much from our wonderful faculty, students, and staff.”
Beyond learning, interns feel like integral members of the team, with their voices and contributions being greatly valued. Rachel Francis, an intern working on the —a program designed to introduce young women to cancer research—shares her experience: “We're writing a report for the SHE program, which supports women in cancer research. It’s designed for high school and undergraduate students to explore the field and see if it’s something they’re interested in. My role involves gathering feedback on what students liked, what they learned, and areas for improvement.”
Emmalie Parker, an intern in the talent office at the institute, echoes this sentiment: “I have seen time and time again—with myself and with other interns at UVU—that the supervisors truly care. They take the time to sit down and discuss our goals. Yes, I'm an intern, but I'm also making a difference.”
“I'm an intern, but I'm also making a difference.”
Emmalie Parker
The program offers a wide range of learning experiences, including research and interdisciplinary projects where UVU students collaborate with Huntsman Cancer Institute researchers on studies ranging from population health to cancer and exercise science. Students also gain practical experience through professional internships in fields such as marketing, multimedia communications, and research compliance. Additionally, clinical volunteer opportunities allow students to support patient care at Huntsman Cancer Institute Hospital and outpatient clinics, providing them with valuable clinical experience.
For many students, the collaborative serves as a stepping stone toward their professional aspirations. Izzy Loveless, a multimedia intern at Huntsman Cancer Institute, shares: “I've gotten a much clearer picture of my overall career goals. Working in a marketing communications department with a team has always been something I’ve aspired to do, especially within a larger institution. Through Utah Valley University's internship program, I’ve gained educational experience, gotten my foot in the door, and aligned my goals with my future career.”
Tammy Clark, associate provost of academic innovation at UVU, emphasizes the impact of these opportunities: “These experiences are especially valuable for students pursuing advanced degrees in health care, providing unique insights and connections to help guide their career paths.”
“Through Utah Valley University's internship program, I’ve gained educational experience, gotten my foot in the door, and aligned my goals with my future career.”
Izzy Loveless
The HCI-UVU Health Collaborative stands as a testament to the power of academic partnerships in shaping future health care leaders. By offering students real-world experience and professional mentorship, this initiative is paving the way for a brighter future in cancer research and patient care.
Jackie Riley, Huntsman Cancer Institute’s senior manager of talent, says, “To be part of a program where we can interact with sharp students who have great interest in building their career in either health care administration or in the sciences in some way, I feel like it's a win-win for both the institution as well as Utah Valley University.”
Through this collaborative effort, students are not only gaining valuable skills and knowledge but also helping to advance groundbreaking research and care, ensuring a healthier future for communities across Utah and beyond.
The critical research happening every day at Huntsman Cancer Institute is supported by the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute, including cancer center support grant P30 CA042014, as well as Huntsman Cancer Foundation.