On May 2, 1984, the new University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center’s original three-story cancer research building opened. In 1977, The Lineberger Foundation pledged $1 million to a building fund for a new cancer research center building This gift spurred others to contribute, and more than $4 million was raised.

One of the leading cancer centers in the nation, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. As one of only 57 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, UNC Lineberger was rated as exceptional – the highest category – by the National Cancer Institute. The center brings together some of the most exceptional physicians and scientists in the country to investigate and improve the prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer.

With research that spans the spectrum from the laboratory to the bedside to the community, UNC Lineberger faculty work to understand the causes of cancer at the genetic and environmental levels, to conduct groundbreaking laboratory research, and to translate findings into pioneering and innovative clinical trials.

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center was named for the Lineberger family of Belmont, NC – pioneers in the textile industry with a long, distinguished association with the University. Four Lineberger brothers – Archibald ’21, Henry ’24, Harold ’26, and Joe ’33 – were instrumental in the creation of the Lineberger Cancer Research Center, beginning with the establishment of the Lineberger Foundation in 1944.

In 1977, the foundation pledged $1 million to a building fund for a proposed cancer research center building. This gift spurred others to contribute, and more than $4 million was raised. This funding provided the core financing for the original three-story research building that opened in 1984.