For the past decade, the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope, has built the TGen Ambassadors program into a network of community leaders dedicated to advancing life-changing research through philanthropy, advocacy, and networking.
The TGen Ambassadors program, launched in 2016, was created to connect executives, entrepreneurs, physicians, attorneys, and other influential individuals with the groundbreaking genomic research happening in Arizona. Dean Ballard, who has been with TGen since 2008, said the idea of this program emerged from a desire to create a community-driven network similar to those at other major institutions. There have been nearly 500 ambassadors who have participated in the program, with more than 100 currently active members supporting TGen’s mission.
“We didn’t want TGen to remain a secret. The ambassadors really are the voices in the community for TGen. They help us get the word out and invite people in,” Ballard said.
Unlike a traditional board commitment, the ambassadors program is designed to be accessible and flexible. Members make an annual $1,000 tax-deductible contribution, receive invitations to 5 networking events throughout the year, and are encouraged to bring guests who may be interested in learning more about TGen’s research.
“As an ambassador, I’ve not only built lasting professional connections across Arizona’s business and healthcare communities, but I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for the groundbreaking work happening at TGen. It’s rewarding to help raise awareness for research that has the power to transform the future of medicine,” Kyle Jardine, Wexford Science & Technology
Ballard emphasized how ambassadors play a critical role in raising awareness of TGen’s research across Arizona, particularly outside Phoenix, where awareness may be lower despite TGen’s international reputation in genomics and precision medicine.
June 17 Luncheon at Chase Field to Spotlight Pancreatic Cancer Research
One of the program’s most anticipated annual events is the upcoming TGen Ambassadors Lunch at Chase Field on June 17, held in partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The luncheon will focus on pancreatic cancer research, an area for which TGen has become internationally recognized through the work of renowned physician-scientist Dr. Daniel D. Von Hoff.
Ballard highlighted TGen’s landmark 861-patient international clinical trial led by Dr. Von Hoff in 2012. The study compared the then-standard treatment gemcitabine to a combination therapy of gemcitabine and Abraxane. Results showed patients receiving the combination therapy lived longer and experienced tumor shrinkage, ultimately leading to FDA approval of the treatment combination the following year. Today, that regimen remains the standard of care for late-stage pancreatic cancer. While pancreatic cancer survival rates have improved, the five-year survival rate remains approximately 13%, reinforcing the urgent need for continued research and investment.
TGen Ambassadors at luncheon at Chase Field, photo courtesy of Rebecca Determan
A Growing Vision for Precision Medicine and Community Impact
Looking ahead, Ballard hopes the ambassadors program will continue to grow over the next decade while increasing awareness that world-class genomic and precision medicine research is happening in Arizona.
“The ultimate vision is precision medicine. Someday, your genome could help your doctor determine which treatments will work best specifically for you. Our supporters will be able to say they helped make that future possible,” Ballard said.
More information about the TGen Ambassadors program is available at TGen Ambassadors Program. Interested individuals can contact Dean Ballard at DBallard@coh.org.
TGen Ambassadors Group Photo, photo courtesy of Rebecca Determan
By: Madisson Simental | May 28, 2026