Cancer Researcher Earns Honor From Charlotte International Cabinet

For her entrepreneurial approach and her 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 has also shared her discoveries with the students she teaches at Charlotte and embodies the spirit of an internationally-minded entrepreneur, the cabinet indicated in its naming of her for the award.

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 Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina. The award, established by a provision in the will of Gov. O. Max Gardner, recognizes UNC system faculty members who have “made the greatest contribution to the welfare of the human race.”

Mukherjee and other recipients of awards by the Charlotte International Cabinet received their awards on May 4 at the 19th Annual Mayor’s International Community Awards ceremony at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.

The 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.

Others who received awards included 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 working to bring international educational, cultural, and business opportunities to the region through programs including Dances of India.

Foreign-owned businesses receiving awards were Stantac, small business, Canada; Chion, medium business, Germany; and Rack Room Shoes, large business, Germany.