A Heartfelt Tribute: New Mural Unveiled at Cayuga Cancer Center’s East Campus

The Cayuga Medical Center Foundation announces the unveiling of a new mural at the Cayuga Cancer Center’s East Campus location on Arrowwood Drive, created in collaboration with Ithaca Murals. This art installation was commissioned in memory of Vince Marziano, a beloved staff member of CFCU Community Credit Union who passed away from cancer in August 2022. Thanks to a generous donation from CFCU, this mural now graces the Cancer Center’s waiting area. 

Local artist Paulina Melechkina, was selected to design and paint the landscape mural. The mural, featuring a serene natural landscape with sunny skies, clouds, and the iconic Cayuga Lake, demonstrates the profound impact art can have in public spaces, including promoting feelings of calm and healing. 

Unbeknownst to the project organizers, Melechkina herself was also a patient at the East Campus location. Melechkina’s connection gave her a unique perspective. “Creating this mural was one of the most meaningful projects of my career,” Melechkina shared. “I wanted to create something healing and hopeful—something that would elicit positive feelings for those going through their journey at the Cancer Center.” 

Melechkina also prioritized the physical wellness of patients while working on the mural. She took special care to only come in after hours to paint, ensuring minimal disruption to patients undergoing treatment. Additionally, she used non-toxic, low-fume paints to maintain a safe environment, making sure that the healing atmosphere of the Cancer Center extended beyond just the aesthetics. 

This project highlights how integrating art into medical environments can transform these spaces into places of comfort, and has been welcomed by staff and providers who were also there through the entire process.

“This mural is more than just art on a wall—it’s a reflection of our commitment to holistic patient care,” said Hicham Kortito, System Director of Hematology and Oncology Services at Cayuga Health. “We are grateful to Paulina, CFCU, and Ithaca Murals for bringing light and beauty to a space where patients need it most.”   

Marziano’s wife, Cora Marziano, was deeply moved by the mural and how it captured her husband’s spirit. “This represents a lot of what Vince would have liked. It’s more of who he was—someone who enjoyed the lakes and the natural beauty of this area,” Cora Marziano said. “Paulina nailed it. It’s beautiful, and I’m sure Vince would have loved it.” 

Cora Marziano’s involvement in the project began a year and a half ago when she met Melechkina. They connected immediately, and Marziano shared stories and memories of her husband, including photos from their trips around the Finger Lakes.  

The impact Vince Marziano had on those around him was reflected in the sentiments of his colleagues at CFCU Community Credit Union. Lisa Whitaker, President & CEO of CFCU, shared, “Vince was a pleasure to work with and he touched many lives throughout CFCU and the community. He will long be remembered for his kind heart, tenacity and positive outlook on life.” 

Ithaca Murals, a local nonprofit, transforms walls into works of art to tell the stories of the diverse people who live in the Ithaca community. Founder Caleb Thomas provided the Murals Committee whose efforts made this project a reality, led by Steph Baily, Director of Philanthropy at Cayuga Health, and Herb Alexander, the Cayuga Health Executive Sponsor of the project, with a selection of artists. Together, they chose Melechkina. 

The Cayuga Medical Center Foundation remains dedicated to investing in similar beautification efforts, working closely with donors and community partners to create spaces that support the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of all who enter. 

To learn more about the Foundation and its mission, go to cayugahealth.org/giving.