partnership with purpose
A vital part of the PICR story
Since 1948, the Indiana Elks have helped fuel lifesaving discoveries through their generous support of cancer science at the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR).
Lasting partnership with a tradition of impact
The Indiana Elks have stood alongside Purdue cancer researchers since 1948, offering unwavering support to advance science with the potential to save lives. With more than 70 lodges participating across the state, the Elks have made cancer research their major philanthropic focus in Indiana. Their generosity has supported countless faculty projects, seed grants, and instrumentation efforts over the decades—empowering scientists to take risks, pursue promising new ideas, and secure major federal funding.
Funding from the Indiana Elks has totaled more than $4 million, helping PICR make a significant impact in cancer research for the entire state. Whether it’s seed funding to help a new, promising cancer drug reach the masses (Pluvicto) or supporting our researchers focused on creating innovative, early-detection techniques for breast cancer (Andy Tao’s proteomics work).
Funding discovery at the cellular level
Elks funding has directly supported many groundbreaking research efforts over the years. In one notable study, PICR faculty Philip Low and Timothy Ratliff discovered that certain immune cells expressing folate receptor beta play a key role in helping tumors grow and spread. These active cells were found only within the tumor, presenting a unique opportunity for targeted therapy. With Elks support, the team developed therapeutics that deliver cancer-fighting drugs directly to these cells—bypassing healthy tissue and enhancing treatment precision. Their work has since expanded to include the development of a genetically engineered mouse model to study these cells in greater detail, offering new insights for future drug development.
Catalyzing early-stage breakthroughs
Many projects funded by the Indiana Elks start small—but grow into high-impact research with long-term benefits. Past Elks grants have supported studies on radioresistance in breast cancer, the development of targeted inhibitors for prostate cancer, and the role of vitamin E derivatives in inflammation and cancer prevention. These early investments have helped faculty like generate the data needed to apply for major federal funding. As one researcher put it, “Without the seed money from the Elks, this project wouldn’t have been possible.”
Advancing undergraduate research opportunities
In addition to supporting advanced research, the Indiana Elks also fund Summer Undergraduate Research Awards for Purdue students. These awards give undergraduates the opportunity to spend a summer working alongside faculty mentors on real cancer research projects—sparking curiosity, building skills, and training the next generation of cancer scientists.
Enabling innovation across disciplines
The Indiana Elks’ dedication to cancer research extends across many fields of study—from immunology and cell biology to genetics and chemical engineering. Past Elks-funded projects have explored leukemia-related DNA modifications, lymphoproliferative disorders, and novel metabolic compounds with anti-inflammatory potential. This broad support has allowed PICR investigators to pursue innovative, interdisciplinary research with the potential to redefine how cancer is detected, understood and treated. Whether it’s developing new imaging tools or exploring gene regulation, the Elks’ commitment has been a powerful driver of progress.
A plaque at PICR honoring the Indiana Elks reads:
“Established in 1948, this program was made possible by the generosity and dedication of the Indiana Elks Charities, Inc. All Indiana Elks funds are used to directly support Purdue scientists through research grants or support for critical instrumentation facilities, focusing on collaborative and interdisciplinary cancer-focused research. It is with great pride Purdue scientists partner with the Indiana Elks to eradicate such a devastating disease.”
Honoring impact at the annual state convention
The Purdue Institute for Cancer Research is proud to join the Indiana Elks State Convention each year to celebrate our impactful partnership and recognize the Elks’ longstanding commitment to advancing cancer research.
Indiana Elks history
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, one of the nation’s longest-standing fraternal organizations, traces its roots back to 1868, when a group of New York performers came together to assist the family of a fellow member in need. Since then, the Elks have grown into a national organization known for its charitable work, which spans areas such as youth development, veteran support, and disaster relief. Historical efforts included aid following the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and support for injured servicemembers during World War I. In more recent years, Elks chapters across the country have continued this tradition by running youth camps and offering services for individuals with disabilities.
In Indiana, a pivotal moment came in 1948 when a discussion among past state presidents at the annual convention led to the adoption of cancer research as the state’s primary philanthropic focus. The following year, Indiana Elks made their first contribution to cancer research at Purdue—a partnership that continues to this day.
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Phone: 765-494-9129
Fax: 765-494-9193
Email: cancerresearch@purdue.edu
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201 S. University St.
Hansen Life Sciences Bldg, Rm. 141
West Lafayette, IN 47907