The Mary Kay Ash Foundation has granted $500,000 to the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation to enhance research and early detection of breast cancer, specifically focusing on triple-negative breast cancer. This funding aims to propel a clinical trial and support initiatives at the Texas Cancer Interception Institute, which seeks to transform cancer care from reactive treatments to proactive prevention.
This grant underscores the foundation’s dedication to improving outcomes for cancers that significantly affect women. Michael Lunceford, president of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation board, emphasized the organization’s commitment to advancing early intervention in women’s cancers. He stated, “The Mary Kay Ash Foundation remains committed to finding cures for cancers affecting women,” and described the grant as a vital step in redefining cancer care.
Support for Clinical Trials
A portion of the funding, specifically $100,000, will continue support for the TRIM-EBC clinical trial, led by renowned breast cancer researcher Joyce O’Shaughnessy, MD. This trial investigates whether certain weight-loss medications can decrease the risk of recurrence in overweight breast cancer patients. Researchers at Baylor Scott & White believe that the findings from this study could play a crucial role in shaping future treatment guidelines.
Advancing Early Detection
The remaining funds are allocated to the Texas Cancer Interception Institute (TCII), established in March 2025 with a generous $7 million contribution from Jeff and Carmen York. TCII focuses on early detection and interception strategies for various cancers. Integrating research with clinical care, the institute employs advanced tools such as multi-cancer early detection blood tests and AI-driven analytics to identify at-risk individuals much earlier in their cancer journey.
Designed for widespread application, TCII aims to shift women’s experiences from “I have cancer” to “I have cancer, but we caught it early,” thereby improving survivorship across diverse communities.
A Commitment to Collaboration
The Mary Kay Ash Foundation’s recent grant highlights a shared vision with Baylor Scott & White to enhance cancer outcomes through early detection and transformative research. Over the past two decades, the foundation has contributed more than $1.3 million to the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation. In recognition of this partnership, the foundation received the Circle of Care Award during the 2025 Celebrating Women Luncheon, which celebrates leaders influencing the future of breast cancer care and research. The luncheon has successfully raised over $42 million to support research and programs benefiting women and families affected by breast cancer.
“Mary Kay Ash believed in the power of women to change the world—that conviction lives on through her namesake Foundation’s bold commitment to advancing women’s health,” stated Christina Goodman, president of the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation. She added that collaborations with “brilliant minds” like O’Shaughnessy can lead to “extraordinary things” that bring hope and healing to patients.
A Global Perspective
Mary Kay Inc. noted that the efforts of the Dallas Foundation reflect a broader commitment to addressing cancers affecting women globally. Across its international markets, the company, along with its foundations and charitable funds, has donated nearly $44 million towards research, education, and support programs focused on women’s cancers.
The impact of this funding and research is expected to resonate well beyond North Texas, as initiatives like the TCII strive to reshape the narratives surrounding breast cancer and improve health outcomes for women worldwide.
