Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center names Lauren Whitmore as AVP and Associate Director for Research Administration

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Join us in congratulating Lauren Ashley Whitmore on her new role as assistant vice president and associate director for research administration at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.”

Stephen Nimer, M.D., director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, recently announced the appointment of Lauren Ashley Whitmore, M.A., as the assistant vice president and associate director for research administration.

Lauren has served as an invaluable member of the Sylvester leadership team, contributing significantly to our National Cancer Institute (NCI) re-designation and overall success, said Dr. Nimer, professor of medicine, biochemistry and molecular biology, the Oscar de La Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and executive dean for research at the Miller School.

NCL Renewal:

Whitmore joined Sylvester in September 2020, managing the Nimer Lab and administering the grant portfolio, including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Specialized Center of Research award, multiple NCI R01s and other foundation awards. She later transitioned to director of administrative operations and advanced to serve as the senior center administrator in November 2023.

In these capacities, Whitmore played a crucial role in directing research and project management teams, ensuring timely completion of critical NCI Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) renewal. Her proactive approach notably contributed to a successful site visit and renewal of the NCI designation, said Dr. Nimer.

Key Duties:

In her role as a senior member of Sylvester’s executive leadership team, Whitmore reports to Dr. Nimer, overseeing the cancer center’s administration, including the renewal submissions of the NCI CCSG. Sylvester is the only NCI-designated cancer center in South Florida.

Her responsibilities include strategic planning, grant administration, membership and education. Whitmore will collaborate with program leaders and executive committees to enhance basic and translational research infrastructure, foster collaboration and ensure operational excellence.

She will evaluate new initiatives, improve research programs and monitor productivity for cost-effectiveness. As the main liaison with the NCI, she will coordinate a timely CCSG submission, directing the research data and project management teams to ensure successful outcomes.

Background:

Prior to her association with Sylvester, Whitmore oversaw a multi-site, NCI-funded R01 that explored the effects of expressive helping on health outcomes for stem cell transplant patients at Hackensack University Medical Center, Georgetown University and Northwestern University. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a bachelor’s degree from Fordham University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Leadership at the University of Miami Herbert Business School.

Lauren’s exceptional dedication, ability to execute complex projects, strong scientific background, effective communication skills and ability to cultivate and lead productive teams will greatly enhance our operational efficiencies, said Dr. Nimer. We are confident that her leadership will facilitate our continued growth, effective implementation of strategic plans and progression toward achieving comprehensive status.

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