On the Path to Prevention | September 2025

HPV Vaccination Keeps Everyone HPV Cancer Free
Updates on the Current Vaccination Landscape
2024 NIS-Teen Data Released Showing No Increases in HPV Vaccination Coverage
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Close-Knit, Far-Reaching: Harnessing the Strengths of Rural Communities to Prevent HPV Cancers Through HPV Vaccination, October 16
Improving Rural HPV Vaccination Coverage
Wide Open Spaces: Addressing HPV vaccination in Southwest Georgia: The Emory Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network
HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast
Recognizing Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month: Janet's Friendship Story
Partner Activities and Updates
Current and Upcoming Events
Team Question
Get Free St. Jude HPV Education Materials
Previous St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program Monthly E-newsletters
About the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program

HPV Vaccination Keeps Everyone HPV Cancer Free

HPV vaccination keeps everyone HPV cancer free. At least 90% of HPV cancers can be prevented through on-time HPV vaccination by the 13th birthday. Those older than 13 years also may benefit from HPV vaccination. HPV vaccination protects childhood cancer survivors too. Children who have survived cancer can preserve their survivorship and remain HPV cancer free too. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we share a recently introduced program – Survivor Proud – which was developed by, with, and for childhood cancer survivors and their families to have the information and confidence to choose HPV vaccination.

Keeping everyone HPV cancer free is the overarching goal of the forthcoming Southeast United States (U.S.) Call to Action: Elimination of HPV Cancers Starting with Cervical Cancer as a Public Health Concern. On September 9, the HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast will launch the first U.S. regional plan to eliminate HPV cancers, starting with cervical cancer as a public health concern, across the Southeast region. Read more about the plan later in this newsletter and in this special communication. Register for the virtual seminar releasing the plan here. Together, we can eliminate HPV cancers in the Southeast.

We continue to provide updated on the current vaccination landscape. Notably, the next meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is scheduled for September 18-19, 2025. HPV vaccination is not listed as a topic for discussion, but the agenda is subject to change.

As always, there are many more updates and opportunities shared in this month’s Path to Prevention newsletter. If you have information to share, please email us at PreventHPV@stjude.org.

Updates on the Current Vaccination Landscape

The current vaccination landscape continues to be one fraught with much activity and often unjustified scrutiny.

However, globally, there is good news. Denmark is close to wiping out leading cancer-causing HPV types because of high HPV vaccination coverage. This is what we are working for – more people protected, fewer people with HPV cancers.

The Annals of Internal Medicine refused to retract a recent publication showing aluminum ingredients in vaccines do not increase health risks for children. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had requested the retraction as part of his interest in causes of autism spectrum disorder. Many previous studies, including large meta-analyses, have shown vaccines available, routinely recommended, and administered have found no links between any vaccine ingredients and autism.

The former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Susan Monarez, was removed for challenging unscientific directives related to vaccinations and other public health matters. Additional senior leaders of the CDC resigned as well. Nine former CDC directors, including those who worked under Republicans and Democrats, issued a joint letter warning about efforts undermining the CDC and perpetuating unscientific narratives about vaccinations. Monarez has been replaced by Jim O’Neill as interim chief.

Oregon, Washington, and California have formed a health care alliance to protect access to vaccinations for those living in these states. While Florida has moved to end state vaccination requirements, including those for children.

The next ACIP meeting is scheduled for September 18-19, 2025. The two-day September meeting will include discussion of COVID-19 vaccines, hepatitis B vaccines, the measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (MMRV) vaccine and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The agenda is subject to change, but at this time, HPV vaccination is not included on the agenda. Regardless, public engagement and input are vital to ACIP's work. Any member of the public can submit a written public comment to ACIP. The docket, identified by Docket No. CDC-2025-0454, will be opened to receive written comments on September 2. Written comments must be received by September 13, using the Federal eRulemaking Portal. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. All submissions received must include the agency name and Docket Number. All relevant comments received will be posted without change to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. For access to the docket or to read background documents or comments received, go to https://www.regulations.gov.

2024 NIS-Teen Data Released Showing No Increases in HPV Vaccination Coverage

National Immunization Survey (NIS)-Teen data assessing vaccination coverage among children aged 13-17 years in the U.S. were released in August. HPV vaccination coverage did not increase for the third consecutive year; coverage continues to vary by geography and metropolitan statistical area (MSA) classification, such as rural areas. Further, HPV vaccination initiation (78%) continues to fall below tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) and quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) coverage, 91% and 90%, respectively, representing missed opportunities for on-time HPV vaccination among this same age group.

Coverage with ≥1 dose of HPV vaccine was ≥80% in 26 states and the District of Columbia (DC), and at least 65% of adolescents were up-to-date with HPV vaccination in 26 states and DC. However, nationally, we have not yet achieved the Healthy People 2030 goal of 80% being fully vaccinated against HPV with 63% of 13-17-year-olds up-to-date with HPV vaccination.

The U.S. map shows the distribution of up-to-date HPV vaccination coverage by state. State HPV vaccination coverage ranges from 39% in Mississippi to 80% in Massachusetts. There is substantial variability by region ranging from 55% in Public Health Region VI (Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas) to 74% in Region I (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont).

Since 2016, lower HPV vaccination coverage in non-MSAs – i.e. rural regions of the U.S. – compared with that in MSA principal cities has persisted, with an 11% difference in coverage with ≥1 HPV vaccine dose and percentage of adolescents up-to-date with HPV vaccination in 2024.

HPV vaccination coverage has not yet reached our national goal and has stagnated over the past few years based on NIS-Teen data. HPV cancer incidence has continued to increase according to the latest U.S. Cancer Statistics data. In some of these same regions where we see the lowest HPV vaccination coverage, we see the highest rates of HPV cancers. Our efforts remain important to ensure everyone is protected against HPV cancers through HPV vaccination.

Access Vaccination Coverage Among Adolescents Aged 13–17 Years — National Immunization Survey-Teen, United States, 2024 by Pingali et al. here. Access 2022 HPV cancer data through the U.S. Cancer Statistics here.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a time to honor the resilience of young cancer fighters and spotlight the urgent need for continued research, treatment, and prevention. At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, this month holds deep significance. Every week, more than 290 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer. Since opening in 1962, treatments developed at St. Jude have helped raise the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to over 80%.

But survivorship brings new challenges—and new opportunities for prevention.

This September, we are proud to highlight the work from our Survivor Proud campaign, focused on protecting childhood cancer survivors from future risks, including cancers caused by HPV. Survivors are at higher risk for HPV cancers yet are less likely to receive HPV vaccination. While we cannot yet prevent all childhood cancers, we can prevent HPV cancers.

The Survivor Proud campaign builds on the trusted bond between survivors and their oncology care teams to increase awareness and confidence in HPV vaccination. By providing clear, evidence-based information, we aim to empower survivors and their families to take proactive steps toward lifelong health. In addition, as part of the program, we are training St. Jude clinicians and ensuring easy access to HPV vaccination.

This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we celebrate every survivor’s journey and invite them—and their families—to be Survivor Proud. Join us in spreading the word, sharing resources, and protecting the futures of those who have already overcome so much.

Together, we honor their strength and safeguard their tomorrow.

Learn more about HPV vaccination among childhood cancer survivors here. Check out our Survivor Proud video to hear from families that have chosen to protect their children from HPV cancers.

Close-Knit, Far-Reaching: Harnessing the Strengths of Rural Communities to Prevent HPV Cancers Through HPV Vaccination, October 16

As part of our ongoing series, Empowering and Strengthening Community, Culture, and Connection to Prevent HPV Cancers, we will hold the sixth seminar in this series, Close-Knit, Far-Reaching: Harnessing the Strengths of Rural Communities to Prevent HPV Cancers Through HPV Vaccination, on October 16 from 10-11:15 a.m. Central Time. The seminar will explore differences in HPV vaccination and HPV cancers within and across sub-groups present in rural communities and will explore actionable strategies to prevent HPV cancers by addressing the unique barriers faced by rural communities. Through the lens of rural intersectionality, attendees will examine how geography, race, ethnicity, sex, and socioeconomic status intersect to influence HPV vaccination access and outcomes in rural communities. The session will highlight approaches to advance equal access to health care, strengthen culturally responsive communication, and equip public health professionals with tools to close gaps in HPV cancer prevention across rural landscapes. Register here.

Improving Rural HPV Vaccination Coverage

Revisiting Rural HPV Cancer Prevention Priorities

As part of the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program’s ongoing efforts to improve HPV vaccination coverage with rural communities in the United States, we are currently undergoing a process to revisit and strengthen the six rural HPV vaccination priorities that have guided our work over the last two years. We would greatly value your input.

Far too many children in rural communities are missing out on HPV vaccination. Far too many people living in rural areas are being diagnosed with HPV cancer as adults. We are working to change this. Your perspective is essential as we all work together to maintain momentum and an actionable path forward.

We invite you to complete this short survey to help ensure the revised priorities reflect on-the-ground realities and today’s rural health context. Access the survey here until September 12.

Highlights from the August 20th Preventing HPV Cancers with Rural Communities: Updates and Opportunities Quarterly Meeting

The August quarterly updates meeting brought together rural partners and advocates to continue the important work of strengthening HPV cancer prevention in rural communities. The meeting began with a presentation of our forthcoming annual report and revisiting HPV cancer prevention priorities with rural communities. Participants also were encouraged to complete the rural HPV cancer prevention survey here. The featured speaker was Dandy Garcia, Associate Director for Community Partnerships at the American Cancer Society and National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives. Garcia shared insights from his work with agricultural and farmworker communities in the Migrant Farmworkers Coalition-Indiana, underscoring the importance of meeting people where they are to improve access to cancer prevention resources and education.

To learn more, visit the Preventing HPV Cancers in Rural Communities website at stjude.org/hpvrural or sign up here to receive the latest information on our rural HPV vaccination coverage efforts. Read the latest rural quarterly communication from May here.

Rural-focused HPV Vaccination Resources and Content

The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program’s national public awareness campaign "Their Future is in Your Hands"has introduced a section focused on rural communities. The online resource now features rural-specific HPV vaccination resources, messages, and materials tailored for health professionals, partners, and communities working to prevent HPV cancers in rural America. These tools aim to address the unique challenges and strengths in rural settings while equipping users with evidence-based strategies and shareable content. Access the campaign at stjude.org/PreventHPV and rural content directly here.

Wide Open Spaces:
Supporting HPV Vaccination with Rural Communities

Addressing HPV vaccination in Southwest Georgia:
The Emory Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN)

The Emory Rollins School of Public Health CPCRN focused on increasing HPV vaccination rates over a five-year period in rural Southwest Georgia. Led by Cam Escoffery, PhD, with collaborators including Michelle Kegler, DrPH, Robert Bednarczyk, PhD, Sarah Blake, PhD, Yue Guan, PhD, and Alex Morshed, PhD, the Emory CPCRN was part of a national CDC- and NCI-funded network. At the time, HPV vaccination rates in Georgia were below national averages, particularly in rural areas. The Emory CPCRN aimed to address these disparities by implementing strategies to improve vaccination uptake among adolescents in underserved Georgia communities.

Read more about this project here.

About the Author:

Cam Escoffery, PhD is a Professor at Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University. She has conducted research for over 29 years on health promotion, cancer prevention and control, health technology, evaluation and implementation science. Her current research aims to translate evidence-based interventions related to cancer control and self-management into practice. She has conducted research on HPV vaccination among immigrants and rural populations and designed interventions to promote vaccination uptake. She has served as principal investigator on grants funded by the National Cancer Institute, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Cancer Society, and Health care Georgia Foundation.

HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast

The HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast includes people and partners from 12 states and two jurisdictions across the Southeastern United States with the goal of improving HPV vaccination coverage to protect against HPV cancers. The Southeast Roundtable is guided by leadership from the Executive Committee, Steering Committee, implementation teams, and general membership. Visit the HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast website at stjude.org/southeast-roundtable. Read the latest Southeast Roundtable quarterly communication from July here.

Here are upcoming events organized by the Southeast Roundtable:

Southeast United States (U.S.) Call to Action: Elimination of HPV Cancers Starting with Cervical Cancer as a Public Health Concern, September 9, 10 a.m.-noon Central Time. Register here.

Start at Age 9 and Other Best Practices: Quarterly Case Study Meeting, September 25, 2025, 1-2:15 p.m. Central Time. Register here.

Elimination: Develop and disseminate a plan for HPV cancer elimination in the Southeast, beginning with cervical cancer, as a public health concern

It is an inspiring moment in the fight against HPV cancers. Groundbreaking research, growing partnerships, and expanding prevention efforts are bringing us closer than ever to the goal of eliminating HPV cancers for future generations.

The HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast has prioritized the elimination of HPV cancers, starting with cervical cancer as a public health concern. To address this priority, the Southeast Roundtable has convened an implementation team comprised of representatives from across the region tasked with developing and disseminating a regional elimination plan for the Southeast United States. The Southeast Roundtable is excited to share information about the official launch of the Southeast United States Call to Action and Toolkit: Elimination of HPV Cancers as a Public Health Concern.

Join us for the virtual launch of the Southeast U.S. Call to Action and Toolkit: Elimination of HPV Cancers as a Public Health Concern on September 9, 2025, 10 a.m. - noon CT. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from implementation team members about the elimination priority action area, the development of the plan and toolkit, and existing efforts and opportunities to eliminate HPV cancers across the Southeast. Register here. Following the launch, elimination materials can be accessed directly at stjude.org/southeast-elimination and through the main webpage.

Communication: Develop and implement a communication campaign and messages for the Southeastern region

It’s Our Way Down South is the communication campaign developed by implementation team members for those across the Southeastern region. New materials will be available soon to promote HPV vaccination through the lens of the region.

If you need any technical assistance with using campaign materials, join here for the next drop-in office hours on September 24, noon – 1 p.m. Central Time. Please make sure to request access to the campaign materials to ensure you receive these updates. If scheduled office hours do not work, please email PreventHPV@stjude.org to schedule a different time.

Start at Age 9 and Other Best Practices: Accelerate efforts to start HPV vaccination at age 9

To address the start at age 9 priority, the implementation team continues to work on developing and disseminating targeted messaging to key partners and health care providers to drive improved knowledge of the benefits of starting HPV vaccination at age 9 and encourage initiation of HPV vaccination at age 9.

The implementation team is looking forward to kicking off their quarterly case study meeting series. These events, presented by the Southeast Roundtable’s Start at Age 9 and Other Best Practices implementation team, will focus on an overview of age 9 case studies and recommendations. Sessions will be held quarterly, highlighting unique case studies to share learnings from age 9 implementation efforts from across the Southeast region.

At the first quarterly case study meeting on September 25 from 1-2:15 p.m. Central Time, national case studies will be presented by Melissa B. Gilkey, PhD, Associate Professor of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Jennifer Isher-Witt, Director, Data and Evaluation, National Roundtables and Coalitions, American Cancer Society. Register here.

The implementation team is moving forward with creating a curriculum for medical trainees to help improve their understanding of HPV vaccination and how to give a strong provider recommendation that includes initiation at age 9. Through evaluation of curriculum implementation and knowledge of medical trainees, this pilot curriculum will then be adapted for other medical institutions to implement as part of their training.

The implementation team is also looking forward to sharing a new information and resource guide, including case studies on starting HPV vaccination at age 9, information about vaccination hesitancy, survivor perspectives, and more. The implementation team is currently in the final revision process for this new resource, with dissemination aimed for fall 2025. We look forward to sharing this resource in upcoming communications, to support public health organizations across the Southeast.

Finally, the implementation team will continue to host and promote provider training opportunities across the Southeast region.

Recognizing Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month

Kristen’s Fight: A Mother’s Strength and the Power of Friendship Against Cervical Cancer

September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about gynecologic cancers, honoring those affected, and emphasizing that many of these cancers, including cervical cancer, are preventable. It’s also International Women’s Friendship Month—a reminder of the deep bonds that connect women, especially in times of adversity.

This month, as we recognize both themes, we share the powerful story of Kristen Persons, a devoted mother, loyal friend, and avid runner, whose life was forever changed by cervical cancer. Though the disease was devastating, Kristen's story is one of strength, purpose, and the profound impact of friendship and community.

As she fought for her life, Kristen also fought for others. Despite her pain, she advocated for HPV vaccination and regular cervical cancer screenings, determined to protect future generations from the disease that changed her own life.

Her message was clear:” Cervical cancer is preventable. Awareness, early detection, and HPV vaccination save lives.”

Her story, “Kristen’s Fight: A Mother’s Strength and the Power of Friendship Against Cervical Cancer,” is not only a call to action, but a heartfelt tribute to the love between women—mothers, daughters, and friends—who lift each other up in life’s hardest battles.

Let her legacy inspire us all to speak up, get screened, get vaccinated, and show up—for ourselves and for each other.

Read more about Kristen’s story here, told by her friend and neighbor, Janet Partridge.

American Cancer Society HPV Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals

The American Cancer Society has updated its HPV Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals page, making it easier than ever for providers to access evidence-based tools, patient education materials, and implementation guides to increase HPV vaccination rates.

New highlights include:

Social media toolkit for outreach

Action guides tailored to different provider roles

Infographics and handouts for patients and families

Quality improvement manuals for health systems

Step-by-step strategies to boost vaccination rates in your practice

Explore the updated resources and join the mission to make HPV cancer history here.

Bring Alabama’s Operation Wipe Out to Your Community with the New Toolkit

As the HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast prepares to release the first ever regional plan to eliminate HPV cancers beginning with cervical cancer as a public health concern, Alabama’s Operation Wipe Out brings new materials to continue implementation of the first ever plan in the U.S. Operation Wipe Out is a bold initiative designed to eliminate cervical cancer by increasing HPV vaccination, improving cervical cancer screening rates, and ensuring access to timely follow-up and treatment. The new Operation Wipe Out Toolkit allows users to access practical guides and resources needed to bring this life-saving mission to their community.

The Toolkit provides step-by-step resources to help organize, plan, and activate Operation Wipe Out. The Toolkit is appropriate for use by health care providers, community leaders, faith-based organizations, or educators to build strong local partnerships and drive meaningful action.

What’s Inside the Toolkit?

Navigation Chart – An easy-to-follow guide for launching an Operation Wipe Out initiative.

Tips for Engaging the Community – Strategies for building trust, creating buy-in, and raising awareness.

Tips for Creating an Action Plan – Practical steps to set goals, measure progress, and keep momentum strong.

Motivate Others – Resources to help address concerns and inspire action through HPV vaccination, cervical cancer screening, and timely follow-up or treatment.

How to Find Credible Health Information Online – Guidance to help community members navigate accurate, trustworthy sources.

School System Toolkit Guide – Tailored resources to engage schools in protecting the health of the next generation.

The Operation Wipe Out Toolkit can help empower families, schools, faith communities, and health systems to take steps that protect health today and eliminate cervical cancer.

University of Alabama at Birmingham O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center Community Dissemination Institute

The University of Alabama at Birmingham O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center Office of Community Outreach and Engagement hosted the 2025 Community Dissemination Institute in August with the theme, Boots on the Ground: Uniting Voices for Cancer Research, Prevention & Care. Just as cowboys and cowgirls once worked side by side on the frontier, researchers, clinicians, and community voices came together to blaze new trails in addressing cancer disparities. The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program was honored to join a panel discussion, sharing HPV vaccination rates, insights, and resources to help communities educate families on the importance of vaccinating children to prevent HPV cancers.

Arkansas Immunization Summit: Back to the Basics

The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program participated in the 2025 Arkansas Immunization Summit: Back to the Basics hosted by Immunize Arkansas, Arkansas Immunization Action Coalition. Strengthening vaccination confidence is especially important in Arkansas and across the Southeast, where addressing disparities in preventable diseases remains critical. Decades of research affirm that vaccinations are safe, effective, and lifesaving.

Back-to-School Bash in Arkansas

St. John Missionary Baptist Church and the Fairview Community Development Association hosted their 34th Annual Back-to-School Bash on August 9 in Eldorado, Arkansas welcoming kindergarten through sixth grade students. The event combined fun and fellowship while equipping students with hygiene products to help them start the school year prepared. Parents also received valuable information from the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program, which provided education on HPV cancer prevention. In addition, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences was on-site to offer HPV vaccinations.

Tennessee Cancer Coalition's Annual Statewide Meeting, September 9

The Tennessee Cancer Coalition will host its Annual Statewide Meeting virtually on September 9 from 1-3 p.m. Central Time. This meeting will focus on key cancer-related topics designed to support and inform cancer control efforts in the state. Speakers include Martin Whiteside, Tennessee Department of Health and Michelle Heil, American Cancer Society. The meeting is open to all, and participants are encouraged to share the invitation with colleagues and partners. Register here and for questions or additional information, contact Rachel Matlock at Rachel.Matlock@tn.gov.

Virginia Cancer Conference 2025, September 11-12

The Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia (CACV) is excited to host the 2025 Virginia Cancer Conference (VCC25): Uniting Minds, Healing Lives. The conference will be held at Westin Richmond on September 11-12, 2025. The conference will provide education and training to key stakeholders in the Virginia cancer community. The conference will feature keynote presentations, breakout sessions, question and answer periods, exhibits, and networking opportunities. CACV is excited to offer a new program track this year focused on pediatric and adolescent and young adult cancer. The following continuing education credits are being offered through VCU Health Continuing Medical Education: 8 AMA credits, 8 ASWB credits, and 8 ANCC credits. Check out the VCC25 E-Brochure for a full look at the agenda, speakers, registration, and more. Questions about the meeting? Contact info@cancercoalitionofvirginia.org.

West Virginia Mountains of Hope Cancer Coalition Physician Letter

As part of their back-to-school efforts, Mountains of Hope West Virginia Cancer Coalition will be sending a letter to primary care physicians across West Virginia, educating them about and encouraging the implementation of initiating HPV vaccination at age nine and providing a strong recommendation for the HPV vaccination. The letter highlights HPV vaccination as a safe and effective tool for cancer prevention and underscores the vital role of providers in making strong recommendations to families. We were excited to be a partner in this important effort to support Mountains of Hope in raising awareness and driving action that will protect young people in West Virginia from HPV cancers.

Fifth Annual Meeting of the Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable, September 23

Registration for the 5th Annual Meeting of the Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable is open! Continuing the theme HPV Vaccination in Full Bloom, the annual meeting will bring together health care professionals, public health leaders, and community advocates to reflect on our progress and cultivate new strategies for HPV cancer prevention across Memphis and Shelby County.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Katharine Head, PhD, Indiana University, a nationally recognized expert in health communication. Dr. Head will share insights on effective communication strategies to promote HPV vaccination and cancer prevention.

Throughout the day, participants will:

Learn about the local policy change to initiate HPV vaccination at age 9, including its development and early impacts.

Hear Memphis Roundtable updates and progress reports, spotlighting local success stories and data trends.

Engage in sessions on communication strategies tailored for providers and community leaders.

Participate in two interactive workshops: (1) The Announcement Approach Training, a proven method for strengthening HPV vaccination recommendations and (2) Practical exercises on effective communication strategies to address vaccination hesitancy and support stronger provider-parent conversations.

To learn more about the Memphis Roundtable, please visit stjude.org/memphis-roundtable. Read the Memphis Roundtable July e-communication here.

September is recognized as International Women’s Friendship Month. Childhood friends, college friends, workplace friends, and even family—the bonds we share with other women are so empowering! The HPV Cancer Prevention Program team members celebrate International Women’s Friendship Month by sharing insight into some of their most meaningful friendships.

“Some of my most meaningful friendships began in high school and college, during a time when I was discovering who I was and dreaming about the future. These women have been a constant source of support, encouragement, and laughter through all of life’s ups and downs. I’m so grateful for these bonds that have grown stronger over the years and continue to inspire me every day.”– Portia Knowlton, program coordinator

“I honor my mom as my very first and most cherished friend. Over the years, I have been fortunate to have several close friends who now live in different parts of the world. Childhood friendships hold a special place in my heart, and we try to stay connected via FaceTime and messengers. I also have wonderful friends in the United States, and we try to meet at least once in six months. Last month, I had the joy of meeting with one of my best friends, who lives in Los Angeles, California. It was a truly special moment.” - Pragya Gautam Poudel, postdoctoral fellow

“I have so many important women in my life, I would have to say one of my most meaningful friendships came from my time in college and the bond that was formed between me and a few of my sorority sisters. We have been friends for over 2 decades, and no matter where life takes us our bond continues to stay strong.” – Karlisa Cryer, medical content writer

“I have amazing friendships with the women in my family especially my daughter and my mother.” - Ursula Leflore, senior administrative coordinator

“Meaningful female friendships to me means someone who will always have my back and be there to support me, even if they are miles away. My most meaningful friendships were made during my time in graduate school. Even though we are now spread across New York, North Carolina, Texas, and Wisconsin, I know these meaningful friendships are forever!” – Maddy McNee, program coordinator

“My closest friendships are rooted in trust, honesty, and the kind of understanding where we don’t have to explain ourselves to be fully seen. ” – Nicole Williams, program coordinator

“Some of my most meaningful friendships span across different time periods in my life’s journeys. I truly value connections I have maintained from childhood, college, and adult life. It feels really good having individuals you can trust and share life’s milestones with.” – Samantha Wells, program coordinator

“My friendship circle is large and strong, with some bonds lasting over 40 years, built on loyalty, intentional time, and a shared commitment to balanced, give-and-take relationships. Whether we're traveling, reading, sharing reels, or simply doing life together, these friendships thrive because of our deep connection that never misses a beat, even when time or distance comes between us.” – Andrea Stubbs, administrative director

“Although many of my closest female friends have moved away, our bond has only grown stronger over time. We've been part of each other’s lives for nearly two decades, and despite the distance, we stay closely connected through regular calls and check-ins. One of my dearest friends and I have birthdays just two days apart, and for the past two years we have celebrated together with a birthday trip. It's our way of honoring our birthdays, friendship and creating new memories.” – Akeria Taylor, program coordinator

“I am very fortunate to have a nearly lifelong best friend named Heather. I met Heather when she was 2 1/2 years old and I was 1 1/2 years old. We played sports together, shared secrets, discussed relationships, and celebrated many life milestones together, including attending the University of Iowa together. Heather even ended up in Columbia, South Carolina where I lived before joining St. Jude in Memphis. We are truly the best of friends forever. ”- Heather Brandt, director

Get Free St. Jude HPV Education Materials

The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program has created a series of HPV fact sheets that emphasize basic information about HPV vaccination and include action steps to prevent HPV cancers.

Four versions of the fact sheets target various audiences:

General public
Parents
Health care providers
Cancer patients and families
College students
Faith community

Select the versions in English or Spanish most appropriate for those you serve. Download the fact sheets or email PreventHPV@stjude.org to have copies mailed to you.

Access resources for childhood cancer survivors at stjude.org/SurvivorProud.

About St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and cures childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. That’s why St. Jude is raising awareness on HPV vaccination, which can prevent six types of cancer caused by the virus. As the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated solely to children, St. Jude has an important role and responsibility in increasing the number of children who benefit from HPV vaccination and reduce their risk of preventable cancers later in life.

The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program envisions a world free of HPV cancers. Through education, promoting best practice models, and strategic partner engagement, its mission is to increase on-time HPV vaccination. On-time HPV vaccination by the 13th birthday provides safe, effective, and long-lasting protection against the most common types of HPV linked to cancers.

Learn more at stjude.org/HPV. Email PreventHPV@stjude.org with any questions.