Dr. Angelique Richardson of UC San Diego.
Last week we received this letter from Dr. Angelique Richardson, a graduate of the Winn Career Development Award program and a Winn CILA scholar.
We wanted to share her words as inspiration to those considering applying for or supporting the program.
Dear Winn Team,
This is Angelique Richardson. After yesterday’s meeting and our discussion on the power of stories, I felt compelled to share some of my own successes that have been made possible through the Winn program.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your support. Your investment is not only bearing fruit—it is cultivating lasting change.
When I joined the Winn program, my goal was clear: to become a clinical trialist equipped with the tools and insight to engage our communities—particularly those who have historically been excluded from clinical trials. Thanks to Winn, I can confidently say I have reached that goal.
This program has given me the skills to understand and lead clinical trials, but more importantly, it has taught me how to meaningfully engage communities. That distinction has set me apart from many of my peers. I’ve learned that therapies are only as effective as their reach—and I now know how to ensure that reach extends to everyone, regardless of background, language, or perceived barriers.
Winn has empowered me to lead several important initiatives:
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Site PI for International Phase 3 Study
I currently serve as the site principal investigator for an international Phase 3 study. Early in activation, we proactively requested study materials in the preferred languages of our local populations. As a result, we enrolled participants—early and consistently—from communities that are often overlooked. The Alliance study team recognized our site for “aspirational enrollment” and invited us to share our strategies. -
Investigator-Initiated Trial on Enrollment Barriers
I developed and launched a pharmacy-funded, investigator-initiated trial focused on identifying barriers to clinical trial enrollment among individuals who have historically not been engaged by our cancer center. I’ve since been invited to submit an additional proposal and am currently preparing two more, one in partnership with our Community Outreach team. -
Championing Community Engagement in Breast Oncology
I’ve become a strong advocate for community engagement within my cancer center’s breast cancer team. I regularly share insights during our monthly research meetings, which has led to more thoughtful, inclusive strategies around patient enrollment.
Winn has given me the tools, the confidence, and the voice to do this critical work—no matter how we define “community.” I am honored to continue in the program as a Winn CILA Scholar and deeply thankful for your continued support.
With sincere appreciation,
Angelique Richardson
UC San Diego
