Every day, I witness the transformative power of research. A new technique sharpens precision, a clinical trial changes a patient’s outcome, a collaboration sparks an idea that reshapes how we deliver care. These moments remind me that progress in radiation oncology doesn’t happen by chance — it happens because we invest in it.
That’s why I’m thrilled that Vivek Kavadi, MD, MBA, FASTRO, ASTRO CEO and Executive Director of the Radiation Oncology Institute (ROI) — the ASTRO Foundation — is boldly championing the start of its next chapter: a re-envisioned, unified foundation driving innovation in radiation medicine and patient resources.
Why Now?
Radiation oncology is advancing at an extraordinary pace. Artificial intelligence, immunotherapy and radiopharmaceuticals are transforming what’s possible, yet securing research funding is increasingly challenging. To stay ahead, we must organize our efforts to be more strategic, collaborative and sustainable.
Bringing together the work of ASTRO and ROI allows us to focus our resources where they matter most — advancing science that improves outcomes. We are building on our shared legacy of investing in research; it’s an evolution that reflects our growth, ambition and urgency.
What's Changing — and What's Enduring
The new foundation will carry forward ROI’s legacy of rigor, transparency and stewardship while expanding its reach and visibility with a new name, logo and branding. With a modern identity, clear messaging and stronger alignment between ASTRO and ROI strategic priorities, we’ll amplify our impact and accelerate the pace of progress.
What will not change is our commitment to supporting bold, patient-centered research. We remain focused on translating discovery into real-world benefit, for every patient, in every clinic, every day.
Looking Ahead
Over the past year, volunteers and staff have been working hand-in-hand to understand the opportunities ahead. Together, we are moving forward with a public launch in January 2026. This re-envisioning gives us the clarity and platform to inspire new partnerships, attract greater investment and tell our story with the power it deserves.
Your Role in the Future
ROI’s success has always been driven by the generosity of our community: clinicians, researchers, industry partners and patients who believe in the promise of radiation. That support will remain at the heart of ASTRO’s new Foundation.
Your past giving brought us here. Your future giving will propel us forward — faster, bigger and bolder — for science, for patients, and for our profession. Make your annual donation at ROInstitute.org/donate.
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