Friends of CCRF,
It is with an equal mix of joy and sadness to let you know that I plan to retire as CEO of Children’s Cancer Research Fund in June of this year. I say joy and sadness, because while I am looking forward to my next chapter, my life has been changed by my time here. The theologian Frederick Buechner has said that, “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” Serving as CEO since 2006 has truly been that calling for me.
One of our organization’s core values is Gratitude, and I am truly grateful for the families, donors and researchers that I have had the privilege of getting to know on this journey. Your courage, commitment, generosity and passion have inspired me every day. And you have all played a significant role in supporting the growth of CCRF and increasing our impact on young cancer patients.
Your generosity over the decades has made improved cancer cure rates for children possible, and we are now at an inflection point in cancer research and treatment. Thanks to emerging technologies like precision medicine and cell and gene therapies, the next decade will bring improved cure rates for hard-to-treat cancers and treatments that have fewer late-effects for survivors. CCRF will continue to play an expanding role in this critical work.
The Board of Directors has formed a search committee and hired an executive search firm to find the best individual for this role. It is an incredible opportunity to lead a strong team, so I know they will find some very talented candidates. I have every confidence that our Board will select the right person to lead this great organization.
Thank you for standing alongside me on this incredible journey. It has been a privilege to be a small part of the lasting legacy that is CCRF.
Sincerely,
John Hallberg
John Hallberg has been the Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Cancer Research Fund since joining the organization in 2006. He will be retiring on June 30, 2020. CCRF is truly grateful for his leadership and many contributions over the last 13 years, and we wish him well as he embarks on new adventures.
