The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Auxiliary at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) will hold its 17th Annual Cooks Tour from 1-4 p.m. April 20 in the Deauville neighborhood of Chenal Valley in Little Rock.

The Cancer Institute Auxiliary’s Distinguished Honoree Award, given annually in conjunction with Cooks Tour, will be presented at the Patrons’ Cocktail Buffet from 6:30-9 p.m. April 18 at the Governor’s Mansion. The award will be presented to UAMS Chancellor Emeritus the late Harry P. Ward, M.D., and current UAMS Chancellor I. Dodd Wilson, M.D. The event also will feature a live auction. Tickets are $100 and include tickets to the April 20 tour of homes.

During his 21 years as chancellor, Ward led UAMS in establishing many innovative programs and centers that increased its ability to deliver patient care, provide health care education and support groundbreaking research. Wilson became chancellor of UAMS in 2000. During his tenure, the university has experienced rapid growth in both research and clinical programs, as well as undertaking its more than $330 million slate of campus construction projects currently under way.

“Remembering Dr. Ward and honoring Dr. Wilson with the Distinguished Honoree Award is a fitting tribute to these leaders of Arkansas health care and higher education,” said Diana Smithson, co-chair of Cooks Tour 2008. “Their contributions and guidance have made UAMS and the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute world-class destinations for patients and students alike.”

Cooks Tour was founded with a two-fold purpose: to raise funds to support research, patient care and education at the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and to increase public awareness of cancer prevention.