Seeking to extend the University of Missouri’s impact on cancer research, alumnus and general surgeon Michael Bukstein and wife Sharon have donated $1.1 million for an endowed professorship at the School of Medicine.

"We’re glad to be able to do it. We’re honored to be able to do it," Bukstein said yesterday at a ceremony in the medical school atrium. "We hope that our gift will help to elevate the university just a little bit."

Bukstein, who is president and CEO of the Hannibal Clinic, graduated from the medical school in 1970 and said he felt a close tie to MU that was enhanced by the enthusiasm of medical school Dean Bill Crist.

"The enthusiasm just spills over," Bukstein said. "You feel the pressure. You’ve got to be involved."

MU said in a news release that the Michael J. and Sharon R. Bukstein Chair in Cancer Research will be awarded to a medical faculty member who will expand cancer research at MU research facilities.

The Buksteins’ gift is part of more than $930 million raised toward the $1 billion goal of the For All We Call Mizzou campaign, which has a deadline of next spring.

MU Chancellor Brady Deaton honored Bukstein as "a national leader in the fight against cancer."

Bukstein is chairman of the Missouri Comprehensive Cancer Action Plan, which represents more than 40 agencies and health-care professionals. He also has served as president of the Missouri State Medical Society and as national director of the American Cancer Society.

Bill Caldwell, director of Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, said the gift will be used to attract a top-level professor and researcher. The cancer center recently was allotted $30 million by the Missouri General Assembly for a project that will combine inpatient and outpatient care in one building near University Hospital and upgrade its facilities.

"Research isn’t just about laboratories and teaching," Caldwell said. "It’s about people."

Advertisement

13 weeks for $13 | Sunday & Wed In your beach bag, in your car, take it with you this summer