Black Woman To Lead NCI-Designated Cancer Center For The First Timd

Dr Monica L. Baskin will become the first Black woman to lead a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center. Baskin has been named director of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and will begin serving in her role on August 3rd after final approval by the VCU Board of Visitors.

“It is an honor to be named as the next director at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center,” Baskin said in the press release. “Massey is an exemplar, locally and nationally, on what truly matters for a cancer center, and together we will continue to be defined by cutting-edge science, compassionate care, and collaboration with our community to ensure everyone has access to lifesaving cancer prevention and treatment.”

Dr. Monica L. Baskin leading NCI-Designated Cancer Center

Baskin is the fifth director of Massey since its NCI designation in 1975. She manages a comprehensive cancer centre that comprises 250 scientists and clinical investigators. Throughout her career, she has prioritised the needs of patients in rural areas and medically underrepresented groups.

Baskin’s research has analysed how behavioural, social and environmental factors can determine cancer prevention, screening and survival rates.

“Dr Baskin’s robust portfolio of research publications combined with her passion and drive for community-focused cancer research has positioned her well to become the next director of Massey Comprehensive Cancer Centre,” said Michael Rao, PhD, president of VCU.

The Atlanta-raised doctor lost her father to colorectal cancer during her senior year in high school. Her father’s loss, as well as the loss of other family members to cancer, led her to conduct research in cancer prevention, early detection and mental health.

Dr. Monica L. Baskin’s career

Baskin received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from Emory University, followed by a master’s and doctoral degree from Georgia State University in community counseling and counseling psychology.

Before joining Massey, she served as the deputy director, associate director for community outreach and engagement, vice chancellor for community health equity, and associate director for health equity at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Centre and as a professor with tenure at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Image: Massey Center

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