Jane Kollmer
Director of Communications, UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center"I think the University of Chicago is such an incredible environment to work in because I am a lifelong learner and there is no shortage of innovative thinking and scientific inquiry."
Jane Kollmer is the Director for Communications at the UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCCCC). The UCCCC has been a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center for 50 years. To celebrate this milestone, Jane took it upon herself to coordinate an immense suite of celebrations in 2024 including, but not limited to: the development of an entire 50th anniversary communications toolkit, the launch of the new Center to Eliminate Cancer Inequity, the release of both the Alumni Stars Lecture Series and Cancer Luminaries (a monthly podcast with Alumni Stars), and much more. She has worked to coordinate many alumni, faculty, staff, trainees, special dignitaries, and hundreds more individuals. This yearlong celebration would not have been possible without Jane, and it is a wonderful way to celebrate the hard work and achievements of UChicago Medicine.
Q: Can you describe the work you do at the University of Chicago?
As the Director for Communications for the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCCCC), I am responsible for elevating the UCCCC’s profile as a leading cancer research institution and raising visibility of, and positive affiliation for, the UCCCC among members, staff, medical and research communities, news media, and the public.
Q: How did you get into your role as Director of Communications at the UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center? How has your role changed since you've started?
I applied for a position at the UCCCC as a writer in 2011. I had a strong interest in cancer research, having lost several family members to the awful disease. The role has changed quite a bit since I started, mostly in terms of the volume of work as the cancer center has grown. And the way we communicate internally has gotten more sophisticated. We shifted away from doing as many print publications to a stronger digital and social media presence. We use videos more effectively to tell stories. Now with the new cancer pavilion being built, I feel that this role will have more interaction with the community and news media.
Q: How have previous roles prepared you for becoming Director of Communications at the UCCCC?
I was able to apply project management skills and a familiarity with medical and scientific jargon. Previously, I wrote about radiology and nuclear medicine, so I was well versed in talking to experts and translating their research findings into lay language.
Q: What was your favorite part of coordinating a year-long celebration for the 50th anniversary of the UCCCC receiving its National Cancer Institute designation?
Overall, the 50th anniversary campaign was really fun to plan and execute, but was a ton of work. We had a lot of events, which got people together in person and built a sense of unity. We launched a podcast series, called Cancer Luminaries, and I had to learn how to edit audio clips. I also had quite a bit of fun developing a communications toolkit with a professional graphic designer and ordering lots of swag with the 50th anniversary branding. My absolute FAVORITE part was digging through 50 years of history and learning about all of the UChicago scientists who have contributed significantly to the field of cancer research.
Q: What is a memorable experience that you've had during your time at the University?
I think I will never forget the impression left by the late Dr. Janet Rowley. She made the groundbreaking discovery that established cancer as a genetic disease in 1972. She mentored a lot of women scientists. Dr. Rowley was a force I greatly admired. She won many prestigious awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, but she really should have won the Nobel Prize.
Q: You have had a great impact on the University, how has the University of Chicago impacted you?
I think the University of Chicago is such an incredible environment to work in because I am a lifelong learner and there is no shortage of innovative thinking and scientific inquiry. It is a privilege to be constantly surrounded by brilliant minds who are making a real difference in the world with their knowledge. I am also fortunate to get my own healthcare from nationally recognized experts. It sometimes feels too good to be true!
Q: Beyond your role as Director of Communications at the UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, how else do you like to spend your time?
I really enjoy spending time in nature and tending to plants. I could spend hours in the Garfield Park Conservatory or the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Q: Is there anything you would like to share with our UChicago community, such as a fun fact about yourself or personal project you are currently working on?
I had my first annual screening mammogram last year when I turned 40 and would encourage everyone to stay up to date on recommended cancer screenings and know their family history. I am trying to eat better, exercise more often and generally live a healthier lifestyle so that I can enjoy life as I age.