SUU Foundation Fuels Success: Alumnus Don Long Thrives as PhD Candidate in Cancer Metabolism at Cornell
Published: June 10, 2025 | Author: Brooke Heath | Read Time: 3 minutes
Southern Utah University (SUU) is celebrating the remarkable achievements of alumnus Don Long, whose foundational experiences at the University have propelled him to the forefront of cutting-edge research as a PhD candidate specializing in cancer metabolism at Cornell University. Long’s journey underscores the transformative impact of a SUU education on shaping future leaders and innovators in science.
Long, recently honored with SUU’s Biology Distinguished Alumni award, credits his time at the University for igniting his passion for scientific inquiry and providing the crucial mentorship that set him on his current path. Initially a pre-med student after serving in the Air Force and working as a personal trainer, Long’s trajectory shifted during his undergraduate studies, sparked by an introductory biology class with Dr. Frederick Govidich.
“He really lit some fire under me in terms of the scientific method,” Long recalled. “He brought that to life. So it wasn't just some arcane writing on paper, and I caught the research bug from that point forward.”
Building on this initial spark, Long pursued a post-baccalaureate program before entering the Graduate Field of Genetics, Genomics, and Development at Cornell University, where he is now a PhD candidate in the Sethupathy Lab, specializing in Cancer Metabolism within the Department of Biomedical Sciences. His research is deeply focused on understanding a rare and devastating liver cancer affecting adolescents and young adults.
“Currently there is no standard of care [for this cancer],” Long explained. “Basically all the different treatments you throw at it – chemo, radio, treatment – it just doesn't work. So basically, we're in the dark as to what makes this thing tick. And what I've been exploring is the metabolism of this cancer to try to explore from that angle, to find a therapeutic vulnerability, to hopefully stop this cancer in its tracks.”
Long emphasizes the pivotal role of the SUU faculty in his development. Beyond Dr. Govidich, he fondly remembers the guidance of Dr. Ty Redd and Dr. Bruce Howard from the Chemistry Department.
“What I really love about this university is basically the one-on-one interactions you can get with a professor. And in combination with that, the professors really care. So it's genuine conversations and genuine attempts to facilitate you into becoming the best scientists that you can be.”
Recently, Long returned to the Cedar City campus to accept the Outstanding Alumni Award and to share his experiences with current students as a guest lecturer. He offered invaluable advice on navigating academic and research careers, stressing the importance of critical thinking, resilience, and genuine passion.
“The worst thing you can do is step out of the game,” Long passionately told the students, addressing the challenges of the current scientific and political landscape. “We need you. People need you in order to advance society forward, and science is a major driver of that. So just stay in the game. Stay focused, stay motivated. Let's do this thing.”
Long’s journey, which included overcoming periods of significant hardship before finding his path at SUU, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of education and the enduring impact of the relationships forged at the university. His success as a promising PhD candidate at a leading institution underscores the strong foundation provided by Southern Utah University.
Tags: College of Health Sciences Alumni Academic
Contact Information:
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu