Reflecting on a year of transition and growth

Dear Colleagues,

As I step into this transition, I want to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of this past year. It is clear that our dedication to advancing research, education and clinical care has positioned Children’s National Research Institute (CNRI) for continued success. This academic year was one of stability and growth, laying a solid foundation for the future. We’ve achieved some wonderful things in FY24.

Our financial health remains strong, with the research institute generating over $100 million in revenue — our highest yet — exceeding the budget by $2.4 million. This achievement reflects our ongoing focus on retention efforts and the enhancement of infrastructure support, such as the addition of a dedicated CNRI HR recruiter. Furthermore, our commitment to maintaining essential accreditations, including with the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, reinforces our status as a leader in research integrity and excellence.

The much-anticipated opening of the state-of-the-art vivarium at the Children’s National Research and Innovation Campus in December of 2023, is fostering cutting-edge research while strengthening external partnerships, such as our collaboration with Virginia Tech. Our work with the Chief Medical Officer on advancing clinical research also opened new opportunities for growth and innovation between the clinical centers of excellence and the research centers within the CNRI.

This past year, our education pillar benefited from robust infrastructure support. We successfully negotiated a 3% increase in tuition benefits from George Washington University for our faculty, addressing an important need. Additionally, we increased our full-time equivalent positions to meet Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requirements, enhancing our educational offerings and accreditation status.

To further support faculty development, we reviewed promotion metrics to improve the recruitment of women and minority faculty members. Our focus on diversity, equity and inclusion is essential to shaping a future where all voices are represented and excellence is achieved.

This past academic year also marked the preparation for a seamless transition and onboarding of Nathan Kuppermann, M.D., M.P.H., as the new Chief Academic Officer and Chair of Pediatrics. Together, we made key decisions that will shape the future of CNRI, ensuring alignment with the institution’s mission and goals. The results from the first CNRI survey conducted in early 2024, coupled with feedback from leadership, will guide the development of CNRI’s strategic plan aimed at fostering continued innovation and success. As I hand off to Dr. Kuppermann in my interim Chief Research Officer role, I am excited for the fresh perspectives and continued progress. I am confident that the initiatives we have undertaken will not only strengthen our institution but also improve the lives of the children and families we serve. Thank you for your dedication to advancing the mission of Children’s National and for your unwavering commitment to excellence in research, education and clinical care.

Warm regards,

Catherine Bollard, M.B.Ch.B., M.D.
Interim Senior Vice President & Chief Research Officer, Children’s National Hospital
Director, Center for Cancer & Immunology Research, Children’s National Research Institute