By admin 
CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, a leading national non-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the development of life-saving treatments for pediatric cancer, has officially announced the appointment of John Polson to its Board of Directors. Polson, who currently serves as the Chairman and Managing Partner of the international labor and employment law firm Fisher Phillips, brings more than three decades of legal expertise and executive leadership to the organization. This strategic appointment comes at a time when CureSearch is intensifying its efforts to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, a phase of development often referred to in the medical community as the "valley of death" due to the high rate of project failure.
The selection of Polson is seen as a significant move for CureSearch, as the organization seeks to leverage his extensive experience in navigating complex regulatory environments and overseeing large-scale international operations. As the head of Fisher Phillips, Polson manages 41 offices across the globe, a role that requires a sophisticated understanding of organizational growth, strategic planning, and stakeholder management. His transition into a leadership role at CureSearch is expected to bolster the organization’s ability to forge corporate partnerships and expand its philanthropic reach.
Professional Background and Leadership Trajectory
John Polson’s career spans over 30 years, during which he has become a recognized figure in the legal industry. Under his tenure as Chairman and Managing Partner, Fisher Phillips has seen substantial growth and has been consistently ranked among the top legal practices by prestigious publications such as The Best Lawyers in America and The Legal 500. His leadership is characterized by a focus on innovation and client-centric service, qualities that CureSearch aims to integrate into its own operational model.
Polson’s expertise in labor and employment law provides a unique perspective to the CureSearch Board. Non-profit organizations, particularly those involved in high-stakes medical research and international collaborations, face a myriad of legal and ethical challenges. Polson’s deep understanding of corporate governance and compliance is expected to provide a robust framework for CureSearch as it navigates the complexities of funding multi-center clinical trials and managing intellectual property in the pediatric oncology space.
A History of Philanthropic Commitment
The appointment is not the beginning of Polson’s relationship with CureSearch, but rather a culmination of years of dedicated support. Through Fisher Phillips’ charitable arm, FP Cares, Polson has spearheaded several initiatives that have directly benefited children battling cancer. One of the most notable efforts was a fundraising campaign that generated $200,000 for CureSearch’s research programs. This contribution was vital in supporting preclinical projects that aim to find less toxic and more effective treatments for children.
Beyond financial support, Polson has championed the "Notes of Hope" campaign within his firm. This initiative saw thousands of Fisher Phillips employees writing personal, heartfelt letters to children undergoing cancer treatment in hospitals across the country. This effort highlights Polson’s belief in the importance of holistic support—addressing both the medical needs of the child and the emotional well-being of the family. In recognition of these sustained efforts, CureSearch previously honored Fisher Phillips with the "Champion for Cures" award, an accolade reserved for partners who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to the organization’s mission.
The State of Pediatric Cancer Research
The urgency of Polson’s appointment is underscored by the current landscape of pediatric oncology. While survival rates for some forms of childhood cancer have improved significantly over the last few decades, cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease for children in the United States. Furthermore, many of the treatments currently in use were developed in the 1970s and 1980s for adults and can cause lifelong side effects, including heart damage, secondary cancers, and cognitive impairments.
CureSearch has positioned itself as a disruptor in this field by focusing on the "translation" of research. Historically, the transition from a successful laboratory discovery to a human clinical trial is where most potential treatments fail. Nationally, the average success rate for cancer research projects moving from the preclinical stage to clinical trials is a mere 8%. This low rate is often attributed to a lack of funding, as pharmaceutical companies frequently prioritize adult cancer treatments due to the larger market size.
In contrast, CureSearch-funded projects have achieved a remarkable 60% advancement rate to clinical trials. This success is attributed to the organization’s rigorous vetting process and its "Accelerated Transition" model, which provides researchers with the resources and industry connections necessary to move their work forward. Polson’s addition to the board is expected to further enhance this model by bringing in more private-sector expertise and fostering relationships with biotech and pharmaceutical leaders.
Strategic Implications of the Board Appointment
The inclusion of a high-profile legal executive like Polson on the Board of Directors signals a shift toward more aggressive, business-oriented strategies within the non-profit sector. Non-profits are increasingly looking to leaders from the corporate world to help professionalize their operations and ensure maximum return on investment for their donors.
"I am honored to join CureSearch in their fight to end childhood cancer," Polson stated upon his appointment. "This is a cause that is very close to my heart, and I look forward to helping drive the organization’s critical work in advancing research and providing hope to children and families affected by cancer."
Kay Koehler, President and CEO of CureSearch, emphasized the value of Polson’s vision. "John’s proven leadership, deep commitment to social impact, and ability to build strong relationships will be invaluable as we continue our work to bring life-saving treatments to children with cancer," Koehler said. "His experience and vision will help us take our mission to the next level."
Chronology of the Partnership
The relationship between John Polson, Fisher Phillips, and CureSearch has developed through several key milestones:
- Initial Engagement: Several years ago, Fisher Phillips identified pediatric cancer as a core focus for its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, leading to the first partnership with CureSearch.
- The FP Cares Initiative: Polson authorized the launch of a firm-wide campaign that mobilized 41 offices to raise funds and awareness.
- The $200,000 Milestone: Through various fundraising events and partner contributions, the firm reached a significant financial milestone, providing a surge in funding for CureSearch’s Young Investigator and Catapult Awards.
- Champion for Cures Award: CureSearch formally recognized Polson and his firm for their innovative approach to corporate philanthropy.
- Board Nomination (2024): Recognizing the need for strong legal and strategic oversight, the CureSearch Board of Directors invited Polson to join their ranks.
Broader Impact on Pediatric Oncology Governance
Polson joins a diverse board that includes oncologists, researchers, and other business leaders. This multidisciplinary approach is essential for tackling a problem as complex as pediatric cancer. While medical experts provide the scientific direction, business and legal experts like Polson ensure that the organization remains financially viable, legally sound, and strategically focused.
One of the primary challenges facing CureSearch is the global nature of clinical trials. As the organization expands its footprint, it must navigate the differing regulatory requirements of the FDA in the United States and the EMA in Europe. Polson’s experience in managing an international firm with dozens of offices will be a critical asset in helping CureSearch harmonize its international research collaborations.
Furthermore, the appointment reflects a growing trend of "venture philanthropy" in the medical field. By treating donations as investments in specific outcomes—such as the number of drugs reaching clinical trials—organizations like CureSearch are held to higher standards of accountability. Polson’s background in high-level management aligns perfectly with this results-oriented philosophy.
Future Outlook for CureSearch
Looking ahead, CureSearch aims to further increase its success rate for preclinical projects and expand its portfolio to include more rare and hard-to-treat pediatric cancers, such as certain types of brain tumors and sarcomas. The organization is also focusing on "survivorship" research, aiming to reduce the long-term toxicities associated with current treatments.
With John Polson on the board, the organization is better positioned to secure large-scale corporate sponsorships and navigate the intricate legal pathways required to bring new drugs to market. His appointment is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a strategic reinforcement of CureSearch’s infrastructure.
As the pediatric cancer community continues to push for more federal funding and faster drug approval processes, the role of private non-profits becomes even more vital. The collaboration between legal titans like Polson and medical innovators at CureSearch represents a powerful alliance in the ongoing effort to ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer has a chance at a long, healthy life. The integration of corporate efficiency with medical passion may well be the key to unlocking the next generation of pediatric cures.
