The Archie Bleyer AYA Trailblazer Award
Celebrating innovators who transform care for adolescents and young adults with cancer
About Dr. Archie Bleyer
A pioneer of AYA oncology for more than four decades, Dr. W. Archie Bleyer has authored foundational research, championed national policy changes, and mentored countless professionals. His career spans the National Cancer Institute, Fred Hutch, MD Anderson, and Oregon Health & Science University. His bold vision—to close survival gaps and give every young person the chance to thrive—continues to guide our field.
What we’re looking for
Recipients embody Dr. Bleyer’s spirit and demonstrate a commitment to:
- Collaboration and mentorship within their field
- Advocacy on behalf of all AYAs and loved ones
- Presenting or promoting innovative solutions to the unique barriers AYAs face
- Forging enduring connections and collaborations that strengthen our community
- Propelling the AYA movement forward—even through uncharted territory
Their work reflects AYACC’s spirit of collaboration, equity, and joyful momentum—yet above all, the award honors impact: creative contributions that measurably improve—or have the strong potential to improve—the AYA experience.
Eligibility
Any person working in the U.S. AYA cancer ecosystem—AYAs, advocates, nonprofit professionals, clinicians, researchers, educators—is eligible.
Selection Criteria
- Demonstrated AYA‑centered leadership that addresses systemic gaps
- Track record of dismantling silos through collaboration
- Innovative contributions that improve research, advocacy, education, patient support, or clinical care
- Commitment to equity & inclusion
How We Choose
Our selection process is consistent year after year:
- Open nominations. Self‑ or peer‑nominations are submitted via our online form.
- Initial review. The AYACC Conference Committee verifies eligibility and completeness.
- Scoring & deliberation. A joint panel from the Board of Directors and Conference Committee scores nominees and selects the honoree.
- Announcement & celebration. The recipient is honored live on stage at the AYACC Conference.
Award benefits
- Award presented on stage at the AYACC Conference
- Honorarium to acknowledge the honoree's contributions
- Complimentary registration to the AYACC Conference
How to nominate
Submit your nomination through our online portal during the annual nomination window (see the timeline below for current‑year dates). A complete nomination package includes:
- The nominee's curriculum vitae or résumé
- A nomination letter detailing the nominee's impact on the AYA Community
Have questions? Email admin@ayacc.net, and our team will be happy to help.
Past Trailblazers
- 2014 – Dr. W. Archie Bleyer: Inaugural honoree for founding the AYA oncology movement
- 2015 – Dr. Stuart Siegel: Honored for pioneering AYA support programs and establishing clinical care standards
- 2017 – Heidi Schultz Adams: Recognized for groundbreaking patient advocacy and community building in AYA cancer
- 2023 – Dr. Nita L. Seibel: Honored for leadership in pediatric and AYA cancer research
- 2025 – Dr. Bradley Zebrack: Honored for pioneering research and leadership in AYA psychosocial oncology