Representative Warren Magnuson, for whom the Clinical Center research facility at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) was named, once said “Health is the wealth of the nation.” That quotation is actually chiseled in the cornerstone of the Clinical Center. In many ways this guiding principle has endured at NIH over the past century. As part of the centennial celebration of the NIH and the 50th anniversary of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the authors recount some of the history of both the NIH and the NCI. The research conducted at the NIH and NCI has had an impact upon the oncology nurses' responsibilities and need for professional growth. This article discusses some of the available programs, resources, and opportunities available from many NCI divisions and the NIH Clinical Center.