Allison Mignon, who was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, is using her experience to drive positive changes in women’s health.
She and her husband Roberto have pledged $50 million to transform the NYU Langone East 53rd Street Ambulatory Care Center into the Mignone Women’s Health Collaborative.
Additionally, a $10 million donation from Ken Griffin, the founder of Citadel, will fund the opening of the Griffin Healthspan and Vitality Center on the second floor, with construction expected to begin next year.
“My vision is that women can be seen,” Mignon shared.
She emphasized that women often don’t express what they’re experiencing. “We rush and, unfortunately, can get overlooked,” she noted. “I really wanted to create a place that offers support, whether it’s for a routine check-up or navigating a challenging diagnosis.”
The collaborative also includes the Joan H. Tisch Women’s Health Center, established in 2011, integrating a network of 125 healthcare providers across 20 areas critical to women’s health, ranging from preventive care to pregnancy support.
“You’re going to get comprehensive care without feeling silent,” Mignon asserted.
Her journey began three years ago when she learned about her aggressive cancer, which lacks certain receptors, thus limiting treatment options. Under the care of Dr. Deborah Axelrod, the cancer was surgically removed, and Dr. Mihai Choi worked to align her breast sizes.
“That cancer diagnosis really transformed my perspective,” Mignon remarked. “I feel fortunate to have had access to amazing doctors and a strong support system.”
Patients can expect a range of advanced services, like imaging for muscle and fat composition, cancer screenings, and opportunities to participate in clinical studies if deemed high-risk.
The newly established Griffin Healthspan and Vitality Center will focus on healthy aging and physical activity, offering services such as nutritional coaching and stress management therapy.
Dr. Elizabeth Komen, a breast oncologist and co-director of the collaborative, expressed excitement about the initiative, stating, “We’re finally addressing women’s health in a meaningful way.” She highlighted the importance of providing practical, evidence-based advice.
“We’re honored to support the Mignon family in expanding access to vital programs that promote physical and mental health for women,” Griffin said regarding the initiative.
This effort also aims to develop new women’s health courses at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, addressing the often overlooked health needs of women, which can lead to misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment.
“Women, regardless of their age, deserve longer, healthier lives than previous generations. That’s my ambition,” Mignon concluded.
Mignone, a mother of four daughters, actively participates on NYU Langone’s Supervisory Advisory Committee. Her husband, Roberto A. Mignone, serves as vice-chairman of the NYU Langone Board of Directors. The couple is also involved in funding various initiatives, including the Mignon Center for Career Success at Harvard and the Allison and Robert Mignon Hall at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
