UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center held a colorful celebration June 12 to mark International Day of Light. The event included an interactive showcase at Aggie Square that highlighted how cancer research and technologies are transforming cancer medicine.

Organized by the cancer center’s Office of Community Outreach and Engagement (COE), the event offered a dynamic space for collaboration, discovery and dialogue.

“The International Day of Light event brought together community partners and researchers to learn from one another, strengthen connections and celebrate a shared commitment to reducing the cancer burden across our catchment area,” said COE Associate Director Laura Fejerman.” We hope this annual event serves both as a celebration of the meaningful work we are already doing together and as a catalyst for new collaborations and initiatives.”

Held at the Aggie Square innovation center in Sacramento, the nearly day-long event welcomed community partners from across the cancer center’s 19-county service region. Attendees included members of the cancer center’s Community Advisory Board, representatives from federally qualified health centers and leaders from community-based organizations. The community participants and cancer center researchers explored the real-world impact of cancer research from multiple disciplines such as basic and clinical sciences and population health.

Bridging science and society

International Day of Light commemorates the anniversary of physicist Theodore Maiman’s first successful laser firing on May 16, 1960 — a milestone that catalyzed decades of technological innovation. While this year's UC Davis event did not focus solely on light-based technologies, it adopted the name to celebrate “light” as a symbol to spotlight the innovative cancer research from all disciplines taking place at the cancer center.

Three researchers, Sohaib Mahri, Chang-il Hwang and Jianan Zhang presented their work in accessible ways, breaking down complex scientific concepts to foster understanding and conversation. Community and cancer center researcher attendees, in turn, shared their lived experiences and perspectives — offering valuable insights into how emerging research and technologies may better serve patients and underserved populations.

“Hearing our researchers share their work in clear, community-friendly language is truly an aspect I enjoy. Their passion and ongoing dedication truly inspire our community partners to continue making a difference in improving cancer health outcomes, and we hope other cancer center researchers can join us next year to experience this wonderful event together,” event organizer Bao Her, a health educator with the COE.

For many participants having direct access researchers demystified cutting-edge science and highlighted its potential to improve community health outcomes. At the same time, researchers gained a deeper understanding of the social, economic and cultural factors that influence the adoption and effectiveness of new technologies.

A model for future engagement

“This event is about more than showcasing research, it is about creating opportunities for researchers and community members to come together, exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another,” said COE Assistant Director Julie Dang. “By fostering open dialogue and meaningful engagement, we build trust, strengthen connections, and recognize the essential role that community perspectives play in shaping cancer research that is relevant, responsive, and impactful.”

As basic, clinical and cancer control and prevention research continue to evolve, events like this ensure that progress remains grounded in community priorities — ultimately leading to more inclusive and impactful solutions.

For additional information about the event or future initiatives, contact Marissa Bashore at mgreenband@health.ucdavis.edu.