The American Cancer Society has awarded ECU Health Cancer Care its annual Health System Partner of the Year Award for 2025, a national honor presented in recognition of a partnership and achievements in improving the lives of cancer patients and their families. 

"We are grateful for ECU Health’s partnership and our shared goals to reduce barriers to cancer care, promote early detection and prevention, and improve the quality of life for people facing cancer and their caregivers,” said Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer at the American Cancer Society. “Through their support of the American Cancer Society McConnell-Raab Hope Lodge in Greenville, health equity initiatives and statewide advocacy policies, ECU Health has helped more people have a fair opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer — and we’re honored to recognize them.” 

The Health System Partner of the Year Award recognizes a health system partner that provides exemplary patient care in alignment with the American Cancer Society’s mission. 

ECU Health said that its cancer care “has proven to be a collaborative and dynamic partner whose financial support and volunteer leadership has made a significant impact on ACS mission programs, health priorities and revenue goals. ECU Health’s contributions to the American Cancer Society McConnell-Raab Hope Lodge, and engagement with ACS roundtables, VOICES of Black Women study and advocacy efforts across eastern North Carolina exemplify the comprehensive partnership ACS strives to build.”

“We are deeply honored to receive this national recognition from the American Cancer Society, a partner whose mission aligns so closely with our own commitment to advancing cancer care across eastern North Carolina,” said Dr. Emmanuel Zervos, executive director of cancer services at ECU Health, and professor at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. “In a region as vast and rural as ours – where cancer incidence and mortality are among the highest in the state – our partnership with ACS is essential to breaking down barriers, expanding access to care and ensuring patients and families receive the support they deserve. This award reflects the dedication of our team members, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership to improve outcomes for every person we serve.”

ECU Health has been a longtime supporter and partner of the American Cancer Society, providing financial and hands-on support for the Hope Lodge. The McConnell-Raab Hope Lodge, one of 31 ACS Hope Lodge communities nationwide and the only one in North Carolina, provides free lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers while traveling for treatment. 

ECU Health leadership and staff regularly volunteer at the lodge, serving meals, assisting at the front desk and supporting facility needs. They are also longtime supporters of the American Cancer Society Relay For Life event, which brings the community together to raise funds, support survivors and honor loved ones affected by cancer. 

“Over the past 13 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside the remarkable professionals at ECU Health, whose compassion, expertise and unwavering dedication shine through in every interaction,” said Robbie Tilley, associate director, cancer center partnerships, for ACS. “Their enduring partnership with the American Cancer Society reflects a deep and genuine commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients, supporting families, and strengthening communities across eastern North Carolina.”

Along with UF Health in Gainesville, Florida., ECU Health is one of just two health care systems nationally to receive this award.