Dr. Arnold Baskies is a nationally respected oncologic surgeon from Cherry Hill, NJ whose impact on the fight against cancer continues well beyond his retirement. A champion of the American Cancer Society for more than 40 years, his involvement began early in his career as an ACS-funded researcher and has never wavered. Throughout four decades of service, Dr. Baskies has led and supported nearly every facet of ACS— from Hope Lodge in Philadelphia and New York, to Coaches vs. Cancer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Relay For Life, the South Jersey Volunteer Leadership Council, and the Mid-Atlantic Research Council. 

Dr. Baskies has served at the highest levels of ACS leadership, he was first National Board Scientific Officer in 2015, National Board Chair in 2017, Chair of the Eastern Division Board, and Chair of the Greater Philadelphia Board since 2018. Under his leadership, the Greater Philadelphia market expanded its Board, exceeded fundraising goals year after year, fully funded Hope Lodge, navigated the challenges of COVID, and built a strong, dedicated staff team.

Beyond ACS, Dr. Baskies has also chaired the New Jersey Governor’s Task Force on Cancer Prevention, Early Detection, and Treatment—reflecting his deep commitment to early detection and prevention, a passion he continues to advance today.

In his National Board acceptance speech, Dr. Baskies challenged volunteers to “throw away the box and become daring disrupters.” That bold vision has defined his leadership and lasting legacy—one that has strengthened our mission and positioned our community for continued impact. We are honored to celebrate Dr. Arnold Baskies at Night of Hope.