Legends and Legacies features the odysseys of 26 accomplished women faculty at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. The authors are physicians, scientists, educators, wives, life partners, mothers, daughters, aunts and friends, who also are devoted mentors. Their collective hope is that by sharing their stories they will help motivate young women to choose careers in the biomedical sciences and strive for leadership in their disciplines, in management and in professional organizations.

"The strength and intelligence of these phenomenal women are overwhelming. They will impact the lives of those dealing with the challenges of cancer for generations. I applaud them and celebrate their successes."

- Former First Lady Barbara Bush
Life Member of M. D. Anderson's Board of Visitors

"The stories in Legends and Legacies vary, but the faces of these physicians and scientists reflect the cultural diversity of the people they serve. The extraordinary women of M. D. Anderson invite us on their journeys and along the way inspire countless young girls to realize that they can be whatever they want to be, too."

- Nancy L. Snyderman, M.D.
NBC News Chief Medical Editor