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Our Mission

 




The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. 

 
 
St. Jude employees
 

Our Philosophy  

To make progress on our mission, we recruit worldwide in order to assemble a workforce that brings together different expertise, skills, thought processes, approaches to problem solving and passion. To allow this broad workforce to produce maximal impact, we must: 

  • Build a community that is based on trust, fairness and a unified purpose. 
  • Provide opportunities for learning and skill development as part of a journey of professional growth for all. 
  • Celebrate and cherish the diversity within our community.  

Through these efforts, we strive to ensure that every distinct individual, workgroup, division and department works collectively toward advancing the mission of St. Jude, and that everyone remains committed to always do what is in the best interest of the institution.  

 
 

Our Values 

  • Always recognize that advancing treatment for children with catastrophic diseases is at the center of everything we do. 
  • Do what is right; take ownership of what you do. 
  • Work with purpose and urgency – your efforts matter. 
  • Embrace the challenge to create a new tomorrow. 
  • Work collaboratively and help others to succeed. 
  • Always be respectful of your coworkers, our patients and their families, and visitors to our campus. 
  • Make the most of St. Jude resources and be mindful of those who provided them. 
 
 
Danny Thomas bust

Building Connections, Enriching Experiences 

St. Jude is committed to fostering a positive and collaborative culture by providing opportunities for employees to connect, engage, and grow. We offer on- and off-campus events, volunteer opportunities, and group activities designed to enhance the employee experience and strengthen teamwork. Our employee community groups create spaces where employees can collaborate, share ideas, and support one another, contributing to a strong sense of community and shared purpose. To further support our teams, we provide comprehensive learning and development programs as well as training and fellowship opportunities, which empower employees to achieve professional and personal growth. By cultivating engagement through these initiatives, we ensure every member of our St. Jude community feels valued, connected, and motivated to contribute to our mission.

 
Four women standing together
 
Holiday lights
 
 

Engaging with Leadership

St. Jude provides employees with multiple opportunities to engage with leadership, gain insight into institutional strategy, and contribute to the exchange of ideas that shape our future. Through these sessions, members of our community stay informed about the direction of St. Jude while engaging in meaningful conversations that reinforce our shared mission. The Town Hall Series is a platform for employees to learn about key initiatives, growth and strategic priorities. The Blueprint Series is a bi-monthly forum to introduce the leaders behind the institution’s clinical, research, and administrative operations. 

 
Dr. Downing and two others
 
St. Jude Town Hall
 
 

Celebrating Heritage and Embracing Community 

At St. Jude, celebrating heritage is an opportunity to foster inclusion, educate our community, and enhance cultural understanding. Through employee voices, interactive events, and experiences like reading, watching, tasting, and engaging in discussions, we honor the global backgrounds that shape our institution. By embracing these celebrations, we strengthen our culture and create an environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and inspired. 

 
Scene at Heritage Festival
 
Dancers at Heritage Festival
 
  Two women in costumes that celebrate their heritage
 
 

Join Our Mission

We welcome all who share our vision to join us in this mission. Whether through research, patient care, community engagement, or philanthropy, there are countless ways to make a difference. Together, we can change the lives of children and families for generations to come.

 
 
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