Marilyn Larson, MBA, Associate Director of Administration, has dedicated her career to advancing cancer research and clinical operations. A Wisconsin native, Larson joined the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) in 2014, driven by a mission to reduce cancer disparities and further establish the MCW Cancer Center as a leader in accessible, innovative cancer research and care.
“Milwaukee has the greatest cancer disparities in the state, so I chose to be where I could make the most meaningful impact,” said Larson.
Before coming to MCW, Larson spent 30 years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Carbone Cancer Center, playing a crucial role in expanding oncology research programs before transitioning to finance and administration. At the MCW Cancer Center, she has leveraged her expertise to enhance the three research programs, improve clinical research operations, and foster collaboration across departments. Larson serves on several advisory committees for the Clinical Trials Office (CTO), and the Offices of Community Outreach and Engagement and Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination. Having worked as a coordinator, submitted IRB applications, and negotiated contracts, she understands the challenges researchers face and uses firsthand knowledge and experiences to foster strong relationships with investigators.
“I love working with dedicated individuals committed to taking on cancer from multiple angles,” said Larson. “I remember a time when nearly all lung cancer patients had a six-month prognosis. Today, thanks to research, targeted therapies are giving people more time to experience life’s milestones—grandchildren being born, graduations, and weddings attended. I am honored to provide administrative expertise to support our investigators with brilliant minds so they can focus on tackling this complex disease,” said Larson.
Elevating the Cancer Center to New Heights
2025 will be a defining year for the MCW Cancer Center, and Larson finds it difficult to pick just one initiative she’s most excited about. “It’s like asking me to pick a favorite child—impossible!” she laughed.
One of the most ambitious goals on the horizon is the pursuit of National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation, which would establish the Center as a national leader in cancer research and treatment. Larson’s leadership has been instrumental in preparing the NCI grant application, and she considers it one of her proudest accomplishments at MCW.
“We are operating like an NCI-designated facility,” she explained. “Regardless of the grant application outcome, we’re already stronger for it. Ultimately, it’s about the journey. We’ve become a better Cancer Center through the process, and the patients and community benefit most from our progress.”
Larson’s commitment to cancer research extends far beyond the Cancer Center and into the community. She is actively involved in Audaxity—a bold new bike fundraiser happening this summer at American Family Field—to help accelerate groundbreaking research at the Center. Larson has been a driving force behind the initiative, serving on the budget committee, governing board, and administrative team. She is also taking on a personal challenge—training for the ride on team Rollin’ for Research.
With 100% of participant-raised funds going directly to cancer research in Milwaukee, Larson is doubling down on fundraising efforts. She and her husband booked a fundraising game with the Lake Country DockHounds minor league baseball team this summer, where a portion of ticket sales and a 50/50 raffle will go directly to Audaxity (stay tuned for details!). She’s also considering a bourbon-tasting fundraiser this summer, inspiring others to find something they love and turn it into a way to support cancer research.
Beyond the Boardroom: Life on the Water
Outside of work, Larson keeps herself busy with her many hobbies. She learned to knit and crochet at age seven, thanks to her grandmother, and said it has been a lifelong passion.
She also enjoys reading and tries to unwind each night with a book. But above all, her favorite way to recharge is spending time with her husband, especially outdoors hiking, kayaking or bike riding. “Being on the water gets me in my zone and helps me relax—it’s the best.”