June 5, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The University of Alabama (UAB) Comprehensive Cancer Center recently honored the American Cast Iron Pipe Company (ACIPCO) for more than three decades of consecutive donor support.

The annual gifts are from ACIPCO employees to support cancer research and oncology care services. To date, the employees' 31 years of contributions have climbed to $520,000.

"The ACIPCO employees are a dedicated community partner," said Cancer Center Director Edward Partridge, M.D. "Their support, and efforts by others like them, is what enables the Cancer Center to continue its progress."

Corporate donations, along with those made by civic clubs, philanthropic organizations, individuals and community groups, enable the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center to recruit promising and accomplished investigators, support cutting-edge research, update equipment and make other improvements. The recent ACIPCO gift went into the center's Fund for Excellence to support high-priority areas as needed, Partridge said.

About the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center

The UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center is the only one in a five-state region to have the National Cancer Institute's comprehensive designation. The center is a leader in groundbreaking research and leading-edge patient care.

About the American Cast Iron Pipe Co.

Headquartered in Birmingham, ACIPCO is one of the largest manufacturers of ductile iron pipe, fire hydrants and valves for the waterworks industry as well as steel pipe for oil and natural gas pipelines.