100 Influential Women in Oncology: Key Opinion Leaders to follow on Social Media in 2024

Starting on August 26, in honor of Women’s Equality Day in the United States, which marks the 1920 law that granted women the right to vote, OncoDaily began highlighting 100 remarkable female leaders in oncology from around the world. Each week, we introduced 10 of these inspiring women, and now we are pleased to share the final list for 2024. You can follow  them on X (Twitter), LinkedIn and other Social Media accounts.

While there are countless exceptional women leaders in oncology who deserve recognition, we acknowledge that we couldn’t feature everyone. This is only the start, and we look forward to your nominations for 2025. We’ll be sharing the submission link soon.

Here are the 100 Influential Women in Oncology to follow in 2024:

Monica Bertagnolli is the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA. Previously serving as the Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Dr. Bertagnolli has been a transformative leader in oncology, pioneering advancements in cancer research and clinical trials. She is recognized for her work in surgical oncology and her commitment to improving patient care, as highlighted in her 2019 ASCO Presidential Address, titled “Caring for Every Patient, Learning From Every Patient.” Her leadership continues to shape the future of cancer research and patient care.
Follow Dr. Bertagnolli on X and LinkedIn.

Kimryn Rathmell is the 17th Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), USA. She is renowned for her research in the biology and treatment of kidney cancer, focusing on genetic and molecular drivers of the disease. She previously led the Vanderbilt University Medical Center as physician-in-chief and chair of the Department of Medicine. Her leadership in clinical research and precision medicine has been recognized through numerous awards, including the American Association for Cancer Research Team Science Award. Dr. Rathmell’s research continues to drive advancements in cancer treatment approaches globally.
Follow Dr. Rathmell on X and LinkedIn.

Lillian Siu is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and Senior Medical Oncologist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. A leading expert in early-phase clinical trials and precision oncology, Dr. Siu was recently honored with the ASCO Karnofsky Award 2024 and has been elected as President-Elect of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). Her groundbreaking work in cancer immunotherapy and personalized medicine has made her a key opinion leader in oncology.
Follow Dr. Siu on X.

Her Royal Highness Princess Dina Mired of Jordan is a global advocate for cancer control and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). As the former President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), Patron of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), President of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and a humanitarian leader, she has worked tirelessly to improve cancer care and patient rights worldwide. Her advocacy continues to influence global health policies, making her one of the most respected figures in cancer control.
Follow HRH Princess Dina Mired on X and LinkedIn.

Razelle Kurzrock is a world-renowned expert in precision oncology and rare cancers, currently serving as the Linda T. and John A. Mellowes Endowed Chair of Precision Oncology and Associate Director of Clinical Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center. She is also the founding director of the Michels Rare Cancers Research Laboratories at the MCW Cancer Center. With over 950 scientific publications, Dr. Kurzrock is recognized as one of the top voices in precision medicine.
Follow Dr. Kurzrock on X and LinkedIn.

Her Excellency Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is a global cancer advocate and the driving force behind the “United Against Cancer” interview series on OncoDaily. She is also the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, Chairperson of the First Ladies Against Cancer and a board member of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Dr. Bagudu’s work focuses on addressing gaps in cancer care, especially in low-resource settings, making her a leading figure in global oncology advocacy.
Follow HE Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on X and LinkedIn.

Laurie H. Glimcher is the President and CEO of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a leading cancer research and treatment center. A distinguished immunologist, Dr. Glimcher has made significant contributions to understanding immune responses in cancer. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the American Association of Immunologists Lifetime Achievement Award. As a leader in cancer research and a mentor to many, Dr. Glimcher continues to drive innovation in oncology.
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Susanna F. Greer, Ph.D., is the Chief Scientific Officer of the V Foundation. In this role, Dr. Greer is a visionary ambassador, guiding the Foundation’s research funding towards cutting-edge and disruptive cancer research. Previously, she served as a Senior Scientific Director at the American Cancer Society, where she led key research programs and initiatives. Dr. Greer is also a prominent figure in science communication and advocacy, with a strong commitment to advancing cancer research.
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Miriam Mutebi is a breast surgical oncologist and the current President of the African Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer. Recently awarded the ASCO Humanitarian Award, Dr. Mutebi is a leading advocate for women’s health and cancer care in Africa. She has dedicated her career to improving access to cancer treatment and empowering women in healthcare. Her leadership and advocacy have made significant impacts on cancer care across the continent.
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Julie Gralow is the Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). With a focus on breast cancer research and global cancer advocacy, Dr. Gralow has been a key figure in shaping cancer treatment guidelines and improving patient care worldwide. Her dedication to oncology has earned her numerous accolades, and she continues to be a leading voice in cancer research and patient advocacy.
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Yelena Janjigian is a Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and the Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. She serves on the Steering Committee of the Giants of Cancer Care and is a member of the International Gastric Cancer Association Council. Dr. Janjigian is a recipient of the ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation Career Development Award, Debbie’s Dream Foundation Medical Award, and Cycle for Survival Grant Award. She is on the Editorial Board of OncoDaily.
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Bente Mikkelsen is the Director of Noncommunicable Diseases in the Division of UHC/Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases at the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. She was formerly the Director of the Division of Noncommunicable Diseases and Promoting Health through the Life-course at the WHO Regional Office for Europe and CEO of the Southern and Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority. Dr. Mikkelsen is trained as a Gynaecologist and Obstetrician and holds a Master’s degree in Health Administration and Management from the University of Oslo. Her current focus is on achieving the SDGs through the reduction of premature deaths from NCDs.
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Lynn Schuchter is the chief of the Division of Hematology-Oncology at the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania, director of the Tara Miller Melanoma Center at the Abramson Cancer Center, and the Madlyn and Leonard Abramson Professor of Clinical Oncology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Schuchter is a clinical investigator in the area of melanoma and has a strong commitment to mentorship. She served on the ASCO Board of Directors from 2009 to 2012 and is the 2023-2024 President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
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Susanne Wollaert is the CEO of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP). She manages the day-to-day business and supports the board and members in successfully advancing their objectives through the ever-changing and expanding healthcare environment. With over 10 years of experience in the management of physician healthcare associations, Susanne has developed expertise in all the main aspects of running a professional society, and contributed significantly to the growth of the SIOP.
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Dean Crowe is the Founder and CEO of Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, a non-profit organization based in Atlanta that funds childhood cancer research through grassroots initiatives. By vision and leadership, Dean works to empower a nationwide group of volunteers, families, and friends who want to “do something” to help in the fight against childhood cancer. She also leads Rally’s national advocacy efforts. Dean has a background in commercial real estate sales and was a mortgage loan officer who got her start in fundraising by serving as the Campaign Director for Young Life’s national camp, SharpTop Cove.
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Noemi Reguart is a Consultant Oncologist at the Department of Medical Oncology in Hospital Clinic Barcelona and the Coordinator of the Thoracic Oncology Unit. She has been deeply involved in the design and patient recruitment for many personalized lung cancer trials. Dr. Reguart is a Clinical Professor at the University of Barcelona, deeply committed to under- and postgraduate teaching. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Spanish Lung Cancer Group (SLCG) since 2007.
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Rachna T. Shroff is the Associate Director of Clinical Investigations and co-leader of the Gastrointestinal Clinical Research Team at the University of Arizona Cancer Center (UACC). She is a professor with tenure in the Department of Medicine, chief of the Division of Hematology and Oncology, and Medical Director for the Oncology Service Line. She holds multiple positions nationally, including serving as the Hepatobiliary Subcommittee co-chair for the Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) and as Chair for GI ASCO 2024. Most recently, she was elected to serve on the ASCO Nominating Committee.
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Shikha Jain is a tenured associate professor of medicine in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the University of Illinois Cancer Center in Chicago. She is the Director of Communication Strategies in Medicine and the Associate Director of Oncology Communication & Digital Innovation. Dr. Jain is a founder and Chair of the Women In Medicine Summit, and founder and President of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Women in Medicine® She founded and co-chaired the inaugural Women In Medicine Symposium at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago in 2018 focused on promoting the advancement of women physicians at Northwestern. She is the co-founder of the Rush Center for the Advancement of Women in Health Care.
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Pat Garcia-Gonzalez is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Max Foundation, dedicated to improving the lives of cancer survivors worldwide. Under her leadership, the Foundation channels over 10 million doses of life-saving cancer treatment to patients in 72 low- and middle-income countries each year. Pat has been honored with the CEO Award from the Union for International Cancer Control; the distinguished Golden Tennis Shoe Award from United States Senator, Patty Murray; the first National Cancer Institute Global Cancer Medicine Humanitarian Award; and the inaugural Emerging Regions Support and Partnership (ERSAP) Prize.
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Jennifer S. Buell is the President and CEO of MiNK Therapeutics. She brings more than 25 years of biopharmaceutical experience, having previously served as President and COO at Agenus, where she transformed the company into a global, fully-integrated biotech firm. Before her time at Agenus, Dr. Buell held key positions at Bristol-Myers Squibb and the Harvard Clinical Research Institute (Baim), where she was deeply involved in the development and operational strategies of numerous clinical programs, both industry and government sponsored. Dr. Buell holds a Ph.D. from Tufts University.
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Ms. Amina J. Mohammed is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group. Previously, she served as Minister of Environment of Nigeria, where she steered climate action and environmental protection efforts. Ms. Mohammed led the process that resulted in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the creation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Karen Knudsen is the CEO of both the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the ACS Cancer Action Network. Dr. Knudsen leads ACS’s tripartite strategy focused on discovery, advocacy, and patient support, positioning ACS as the largest non-governmental funder of cancer research in the U.S. She previously served as EVP of Oncology Services at Jefferson Health and Director of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center.
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Robin Zon is the President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and Director of Breast Cancer Oncology at Cincinnati Cancer Advisors (CCA). She has served as Medical Director of Oncology Research at Memorial Hospital and Principal Investigator for the Northern Indiana Cancer Research Consortium. Dr. Zon is a dedicated advocate for cancer patients and has been honored with ASCO’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
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Sally Wolf is the creator of LightWorks, a professional development initiative that inspires others to flourish in work and life. She is also a metastatic breast cancer thriver and wellbeing advocate, offering workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements focused on authentic self-expression and living with purpose. Sally previously held leadership roles at WarnerMedia and Nickelodeon.
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Sarah Louden is the Founder and CEO of Total Health, the largest provider of free oncology medical education in the U.S. She is also the Chairman of the Board of the Cancer Equity Project, which works to address disparities in cancer care, particularly in underrepresented communities.
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Penilla Gunther is a former member of the Swedish Parliament and founder of FOKUS Patient®, a platform focused on life sciences and healthcare from the patient’s perspective. She is a member of the EU Cancer Mission Board and a two-time cancer survivor who has also undergone a heart transplant. Penilla is co-chair of the EU’s smartCARE initiative, aiming to improve cancer survivor health through digital solutions and the President of the European Patient Safety Foundation.
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Isabel Mestres is the CEO of City Cancer Challenge (C/Can), where she leads efforts to reduce the burden of cancer in low- and middle-income countries. Isabel has been instrumental in building C/Can’s partnerships and global positioning, working across 13 cities to improve access to quality cancer care. She previously held leadership positions at the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).
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Courtney Sullivan is the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) Nursing Network Chair and Assistant Professor of Nursing at Michigan State University. She has expanded pediatric oncology nursing outreach to over 40 countries and co-developed global certification courses in chemotherapy. Dr. Sullivan’s research focuses on measuring pediatric oncology nursing quality.
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Narjust Florez is the Associate Director of the Cancer Care Equity Program and a thoracic medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center. Her research includes targeted therapy for lung cancer and sexual health in women with lung cancer. Dr. Florez is also a prominent voice on cancer health disparities and founded the Florez Lab to foster inclusivity in medicine.
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Ishtar Espejo is the Director of the Aladina Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization in Spain that supports over 1,700 children with cancer and their families each year. Under her leadership, the foundation has grown its international cooperation programs, extending its impact across Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Catherine, Princess of Wales, has been open about her personal cancer journey, sharing her experiences with chemotherapy and recovery. Throughout her time in the public eye, Catherine has championed various causes, including mental health, early childhood development, and cancer care awareness. Her resilience and dedication to public service continue to inspire many.
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Patricia M. LoRusso is the President of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and a leader in early-phase clinical trials. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. LoRusso has dedicated her career to drug development and cancer research. She is a professor at Yale University, where she continues to lead transformative work in oncology.
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Tilly Metz is a Member of the European Parliament from Luxembourg and a prominent advocate for health issues, including cancer prevention and the treatment of rare diseases. She has been instrumental in shaping European policies on public health and pharmaceuticals. Tilly also serves as Vice-president for the Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT) and of the Intergroup on People with Disabilities and is committed to improving the lives of cancer patients across Europe.
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Lacy Hubbard is the President of Elekta Foundation and has over 23 years of experience in the global radiation industry. Her work focuses on advancing radiation therapy in low- and middle-income countries, making critical cancer treatments more accessible. Lacy is passionate about building sustainable cancer care systems in underserved regions.
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Dilyara Kaidarova is the Director of Kazakh Institute of Oncology and Radiology, President of the Kazakhstan Cancer Society, and a key figure in oncology in Central Asia. With more than 30 years of experience, Prof. Kaidarova has contributed significantly to cancer research and care, and her work extends internationally through her involvement with the UICC, ASCO, and ESMO.
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Darcy Burbage is an Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist and a pioneer in oncology nursing. She developed the role of Oncology Nurse Navigator at Christiana Care Health System and continues to contribute to oncology nursing education. Her dedication to patient care and advocacy has earned her several prestigious awards.
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Mara Antonoff is an Associate Professor in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Vice-President at the Women in Thoracic Surgery. She specializes in thoracic oncology and is a leader in surgical education. Dr. Antonoff is also involved in research on early detection of lung cancer and localized therapies for metastatic cancer.
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Yan Liu is the Chief Medical Officer of Yantai Dongcheng Pharmaceutical Group and an expert in medical imaging and cancer diagnostics. With a background in radiology and translational research, Dr. Liu has played a crucial role in integrating cutting-edge technology into clinical trials and cancer treatment. Previously, she was the head of translational research, radiotherapy and imaging department of the EORTC.
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Margaret Gatti-Mays is a section chief of Breast Medical Oncology at OSUCCC – James and is an expert in breast cancer immunotherapy. Her research focuses on innovative clinical trials and expanding the use of immunotherapy in breast cancer treatment. She is the Vice Chair for the SITC Committee for Cancer Immunotherapy Guidelines
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As President and CEO of Susan G. Komen, Paula Schneider is responsible for the strategic direction and operations of the world’s largest breast cancer organization. Under her leadership, Komen has invested over $3.5 billion in research, advocacy, and patient support, contributing to a 43% reduction in the breast cancer mortality rate since 1982. Paula’s personal connection to the cause as a breast cancer survivor and having lost her mother to metastatic breast cancer drives her work.
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Maryam Lustberg is the Director of the Center for Breast Cancer at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center, where she also serves as Chief of Breast Medical Oncology. An Associate Professor of Medicine, Dr. Lustberg is the President of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC), leading efforts to improve supportive care for cancer patients globally.
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Nazik Hammad is a Professor in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto and Visiting Professor at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. She is an advocate for medical education and workforce development in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Hammad’s work is pivotal in advancing oncology education in underserved regions.
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Cathy Eng is a Professor of Medicine and Co-Director of GI Oncology at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. She holds the David H. Johnson Endowed Chair of Surgical and Medical Oncology and is a leader in clinical trials for colorectal and HPV-associated cancers. Dr. Eng has played a critical role in shaping cancer treatment and research, particularly for young colorectal cancer patients. She is the Vice-Chair for the SWOG GI Committee and the NCI GI Steering Committee.
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Sana Al Sukhun is an Adjunct Professor of Medical Oncology, the President of the Jordanian Society of American Medical Graduates and Past President of the Jordanian Oncology Society. She serves as Co-Chair of the Resource Stratified Guideline Advisory Group of ASCO, where she develops guidelines to enhance cancer treatment in resource-limited settings. Her recent recognition with the King Abdullah II Medal for Excellence highlights her significant contributions to oncology.
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Carmen Uscatu is the Founder and President of Dăruiește Viață/Give Life, an NGO dedicated to reforming healthcare in Romania. Carmen has raised over €74 million to improve cancer care in her country, making her a leading force for change in Eastern European oncology. Her leadership and fundraising efforts have enabled groundbreaking advancements in Romanian healthcare infrastructure.
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Sujuan Ba is the President & CEO of the National Foundation for Cancer Research and the Asian Fund for Cancer Research. She co-founded the Global Coalition for Adaptive Research and the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund, pioneering adaptive clinical trials and supporting women-led oncology startups. Dr. Ba’s work accelerates the delivery of new cancer therapies and promotes innovation in the field.
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Rejin Kebudi is a Professor of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at Istanbul University and the Secretary General of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP). A recipient of ASCO’s International Women Who Conquer Cancer Mentorship Award, she has led numerous initiatives to advance pediatric oncology worldwide, particularly in supportive care and education.
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Samantha Siegel is a physician, two-time cancer survivor, and an advocate for cancer survivorship. She emphasizes the importance of holistic survivorship care and is a vocal proponent of integrating emotional support with medical treatment. Dr. Siegel is passionate about using her personal journey to drive changes in healthcare practices and survivorship care models.
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Monique Gary is a breast surgical oncologist, Medical Director of the Grand View Health/Penn Cancer Network cancer Program and the Chief Medical Officer of Bexa. She is also the CEO of Still Rise Farms, where she focuses on holistic cancer care and wellness for marginalized communities. Dr. Gary is dedicated to achieving health equity and building community-based approaches to cancer treatment and prevention.
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Coral Olazagasti is an Assistant Professor at Sylvester Cancer Center, University of Miami, with a focus on lung cancer screening and addressing racial disparities in healthcare. As a Latina physician, Dr. Olazagasti is committed to reducing healthcare inequities and improving outcomes for minority cancer patients.
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Stella Kyriakides is the European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety and the driving force behind Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. As a former President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and President of the European Breast Cancer Coalition, she has played a pivotal role in improving cancer prevention, care, and patient advocacy across Europe. Dr. Kyriakides continues to lead efforts in establishing robust healthcare systems across the EU, advocating for cancer patients and their families.
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Danielle Carnival leads the the Biden Cancer Moonshot for the President and First Lady of the United States and directs a Health Outcomes team as a Deputy Director in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. A neuroscientist by training, she has been instrumental in driving national cancer initiatives and advocating for patient engagement, all with a focus on improving cancer outcomes through innovation and research.
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Sara Tolaney is the Chief of the Division of Breast Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. She is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking research in breast cancer, particularly in developing more effective and less toxic treatment approaches.
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Kathleen Schmeler is a Professor of Gynecologic Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Associate Vice President of Global Oncology at MD Anderson. Her work focuses on cervical cancer prevention and treatment, particularly in underserved populations and developing countries. She leads numerous global initiatives to improve women’s health and cancer care.
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Tsetsegsaikhan Batmunkh is the CEO of the National Cancer Council of Mongolia. With a background in medicine and microbiology, she has dedicated her career to health advocacy and supporting cancer patients in Mongolia. Her leadership in the non-profit and public sectors has driven significant improvements in cancer care and patient support across the country.
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Sabine Brookman-May is a Professor of Urology at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and the Senior Vice President and Therapeutic Area Head of Urologic Oncology at Aura Biosciences. With a wealth of experience in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry, she is advancing cutting-edge therapies in urologic oncology.
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Erika Ruiz-Garcia is a Professor and Chief of the Translational Medicine Laboratory at Instituto Nacional de Cancerología in Mexico City. She is a leading figure in gastrointestinal oncology research and has been elected to lead the ASCO Education Program Committee for 2025 – 2026.
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Hope Rugo is a Professor of Medicine and Director of Breast Oncology and Clinical Trials Education at UCSF. She holds a Winterhof Family Endowed Professorship in Breast Cancer at UCSF. With decades of experience in breast cancer research, Dr. Rugo has led multiple clinical trials focused on novel therapeutics and improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients.
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Vania Wisdom is a Senior Executive Editor at The Lancet, where she leads the journal’s oncology initiatives, including the fast-tracking of cutting-edge cancer research. Her career spans both academic research and editorial leadership, with a focus on ensuring global access to impactful oncology studies.
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Julie McCrossin is a cancer survivor and a prominent voice in cancer education. She is a freelance broadcaster, podcaster, and MC who uses her platform to support cancer patients and survivors. Julie hosts the popular podcast series, The Thing About Cancer, and co-produces educational videos in partnership with cancer clinicians and advocates.
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Jill Biden is the First Lady of the United States, an educator, and a passionate cancer advocate. After losing her son Beau to brain cancer in 2015, Dr. Biden has been at the forefront of cancer advocacy, helping launch the White House Cancer Moonshot. She continues to champion cancer awareness, access to care, and reducing disparities in treatment and outcomes as part of her First Lady initiatives.
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Her Royal Highness Princess Reema Bint Bandar is Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States and the first woman to hold the role. A champion for women’s empowerment and health, she co-founded the Zahra Breast Cancer Association to improve women’s health access across Saudi Arabia. Zahra Breast Cancer Association set a Guinness World Record by forming the World’s Largest Human Awareness Ribbon in 2015.
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Shilpa Gupta is the Director of Genitourinary Medical Oncology at Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute. She is a leading researcher in bladder cancer, focusing on novel drug development and understanding biomarkers of response and resistance to treatment. Dr. Gupta’s pioneering work is helping transform the landscape of bladder cancer care.
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Jennifer Geel is the Head of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital in South Africa and the President-Elect of SIOP Africa. She founded CARE (Cancer Awareness, Research, and Education) for Kids with Cancer, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving research collaboration in pediatric oncology across Africa. Prof. Geel’s work is pivotal in addressing pediatric cancer care in underserved regions.
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Alessandra Curioni-Fontecedro is the Director of Oncology at the Hospital of Fribourg and a Full Professor of Oncology at the University of Fribourg. She serves as President of the Lung Cancer Working Group for the Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research and the Editor-in-chief of Daily reporter, European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO).
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Rana McKay is an Associate Professor of Medicine at UC San Diego and a Co-Leader of the Genitourinary Oncology Disease Team at the Moores Cancer Center. She is an expert in bladder, kidney, and prostate cancer, leading numerous early-phase clinical trials. Dr. McKay’s research has been featured in prestigious journals like Nature and The Lancet, and she is committed to advancing urologic cancer treatment and outcomes.
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Ashley Magargee is the CEO of Genentech Inc., making her the first woman to lead the biotech giant. A longtime advocate for gender diversity in leadership, Magargee is known for her commitment to inclusive practices in both clinical trials and corporate operations. Her ascent to the CEO role marks a significant milestone for women in biotech leadership.
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Sarah Sammons is a medical oncologist specializing in metastatic breast cancer at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She has led numerous clinical trials that have expanded treatment options for patients with metastatic breast cancer, particularly in managing brain metastases. Dr. Sammons also serves as Associate Director of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
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Stacey Tinianov is a breast cancer survivor, patient advocate, and community engagement consultant. She co-founded Advocates for Collaborative Education (ACE) and is deeply involved in policy advocacy for cancer survivorship and precision medicine. Stacey’s work bridges the gap between patients, industry, and researchers to improve person-centered care and accelerate scientific discovery.
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Ophira Ginsburg is a Senior Advisor for Clinical Research at the National Cancer Institute’s Center for Global Health. She is also a co-chair of The Lancet Commission on Women, Power, and Cancer. With nearly two decades of experience in global cancer control, Dr. Ginsburg has led initiatives aimed at improving breast and cervical cancer care in low- and middle-income countries. In 2022 she received the ASCO Humanitarian Award.

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Carla Bruni, the Former First Lady of France, a model and singer, made a powerful return to the spotlight at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, just one year after revealing her breast cancer diagnosis. Bruni, who has long advocated for regular cancer screenings, used her platform to emphasize the life-saving importance of mammograms. Her bravery in sharing her story has become an inspiration for many women globally.
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Debra Patt is a breast cancer specialist and Executive Vice President of Texas Oncology. She has led healthcare policy initiatives and testified before the US Congress to protect access to cancer care. As the chair of ASCO’s Artificial Intelligence Task Force, Dr. Patt is at the forefront of integrating digital health tools to enhance patient outcomes. She also serves on the ASCO Board of Directors, guiding national efforts to advance oncology care.
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Giselle Sholler is the Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. She founded the Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium, connecting over 55 hospitals worldwide to offer clinical trials for children. Dr. Sholler’s work on targeted therapies has led to the FDA approval of DFMO for high-risk neuroblastoma, making significant strides in pediatric oncology.
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Abigail Johnston is an attorney and metastatic breast cancer (MBC) advocate, living with stage IV breast cancer since 2017. She founded Connect IV Legal Services, providing pro bono legal support for MBC patients, and plays a crucial role in various organizations like Metavivor, SurvivingBreastCancer.org, and Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Johnston’s advocacy work emphasizes the importance of patient support and empowerment.
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Vanina Laurent-Ledru is the Director General of Foundation S and a leading voice on health equity and global healthcare solutions. With a legal background and extensive experience in public-private partnerships, Vanina has spearheaded diversity and inclusion initiatives and health projects for underserved communities, notably at Gavi and Merck/MSD. She is a frequent speaker at global forums such as the UN General Assembly and COP28.
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Uta Schmidt-Straßburger is the Scientific Director of the Master Online Study Program Advanced Oncology at Ulm University. With a background in biochemistry and a PhD in chemistry, she has been instrumental in expanding oncology education globally. Dr. Schmidt-Straßburger also edited the open-access book Improving Oncology Worldwide,  and leads “Caring and Sharing” podcast, contributing to the advancement of global cancer care education.
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Elena Castro is a Consultant Medical Oncologist specializing in prostate cancer at Hospital 12 de Octubre in Madrid. She has conducted extensive research on the genetic and genomic variants in prostate cancer, contributing to clinical trials that offer new treatments for advanced cases. Dr. Castro is a member of ESMO’s faculty panel for prostate cancer and plays an active role in translational and precision medicine.
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Ester Demirtshyan is the CEO of the City of Smile Charitable Foundation, Armenia’s largest pediatric cancer charity. Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded significantly, funding the country’s first pediatric cancer palliative care clinic. Ester’s work ensures that young cancer patients receive essential care and support, making a profound impact on children’s lives across Armenia.
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Amy C. Moore serves as LUNGevity’s Vice President of Global Engagement and Patient Partnerships. A trained virologist and cancer researcher, Dr. Moore has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and led large research initiatives intersecting lung cancer and COVID-19. She is a recognized authority in the field, serving on various advisory boards to advance lung cancer research and patient advocacy.
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Laura Vater is a gastrointestinal oncologist at the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, specializing in colorectal and pancreatic cancers. She developed the globally recognized SMILE Scale in 2017 to support patient and clinician well-being. Dr. Vater’s research also explores narrative medicine to enhance clinician empathy and improve caregiver support in oncology care.
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Katie Coleman, a stage IV cancer survivor, author, and advocate, was diagnosed at 29 with metastatic oncocytoma, an ultra-rare kidney cancer. Katie’s journey—chronicled in her book Too Young for Cancer—highlights her determination to navigate an often biased medical system and ultimately find her life’s purpose in patient advocacy. Today, she collaborates with specialists and donates proceeds from her advocacy work to cancer research, championing the cause for rare cancer patients worldwide.
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Julie Torode serves as a Board Member of the Institute of Cancer Policy and is a key figure in global cancer prevention, particularly focusing on women’s health. With extensive experience at the Union for International Cancer Control, Dr. Torode was pivotal in advancing the WHO’s Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. She now co-chairs the WHO Global Guideline Group for Cervical Cancer, working internationally to improve healthcare access.
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Castalia Fernández, a radiation oncologist at GenesisCare, specializes in treating central nervous system tumors, lung cancer, and oligometastatic patients. Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, she is deeply involved in efforts to humanize radiotherapy and participates actively in groups such as SEOR. Her dedication to a patient-centered approach is reshaping radiotherapy experiences for her patients.
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Ilana Yurkiewicz is a primary care physician and oncologist whose expertise extends to medical journalism and survivorship care. As the author of Fragmented: A Doctor’s Quest to Piece Together American Health Care, she addresses systemic healthcare issues and advocates for a holistic approach in oncology. Dr. Yurkiewicz’s work appears in top publications, bridging academic knowledge with real-world patient advocacy.
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Sabita Jiwnani, Professor of Thoracic Surgery at Tata Memorial Hospital, is recognized for her expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. As co-editor of the Atlas of Operative Surgical Oncology, she leads projects focused on enhancing surgical outcomes and quality of life. Dr. Jiwnani’s contributions to thoracic oncology are highly regarded across both national and international surgical communities.
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Marina Konopleva is the Director of the Leukemia Program and Professor of Oncology at Montefiore Einstein, a leading expert in hematologic malignancies. Her groundbreaking research led to FDA approval of venetoclax, a low-toxicity therapy for elderly AML patients. Dr. Konopleva’s innovative approaches, including work on apoptosis pathways, have transformed leukemia treatment and benefited countless patients.
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Susannah Stanway is a honorary consultant medical oncologist at the Royal Marsden Hospital dedicated to global cancer control in low-resource settings. She co-founded the RMH/ICR Cancer Control in LMICs Collaborative Group and trains healthcare providers in East Africa. Dr. Stanway is also involved in climate-conscious cancer initiatives, co-chairing Oncologists Unite for Climate Health (OUCH), and is the co-convener of the London Global Cancer Week.
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Hetty Carraway is the Director of Leukemia Program and a Professor at Cleveland Clinic, and chairs ASH’s Committee on Training. Renowned for her expertise in hematologic malignancies, she actively conducts clinical trials to advance leukemia treatments. Dr. Carraway’s work as a physician, researcher, and educator has earned her respect across the hematology and oncology fields.
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Jennifer Douglas, author of A Breast Cancer Journey: Living it One Step at a Time, was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer at 41. Her book details her journey through treatment, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges of “early” cancer. Jennifer’s story and advocacy remind us of the complexity of all cancer journeys, regardless of stage, and inspire others facing similar battles.
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Irena Joveva, a Slovenian Member of the European Parliament, is a dedicated advocate for cancer patients’ rights and quality of life post-treatment. Active in the Committee on Public Health, she has championed initiatives for cancer survivors’ rights, including the “right to be forgotten.” Joveva’s work with the Special Committee on Beating Cancer reflects her commitment to legislative solutions that address both medical and societal needs for cancer patients and survivors.
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Lidia Schapira is a leading medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer care and the inaugural Director of Stanford’s Cancer Survivorship Program. Her commitment to improving the health outcomes of cancer survivors is matched by her efforts to train the next generation of physician-scientists and develop innovative educational programs for practicing physicians. From 2015 to 2021, she served as Editor-in-Chief of Cancer.Net, the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s public website.

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Stacy Hurt, Chief Patient Officer at Parexel, a leading Phase I-IV CRO, is a tireless advocate for expanding clinical trial accessibility and ensuring that people with diverse abilities have an equitable opportunity for better treatments. Her work focuses on amplifying the voices of patients and caregivers, driving change in the early stages of drug development to improve cancer care for all.

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Ginny Mason is the Executive Director of the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation and a passionate advocate for those affected by inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). Diagnosed with IBC in 1994, Ginny has leveraged her experience to raise awareness and push for better research and treatment options. Her advocacy has been central in providing critical resources for those living with IBC, a rare and often misunderstood form of breast cancer.

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Antonella Cardone, Executive Director of Cancer Patients Europe (CPE), has had a profound impact on cancer patient advocacy across Europe. Through her strategic leadership, she has advanced initiatives focused on social inclusion, health, and capacity building to ensure cancer patients have the support and care they need. Cardone served as the Director of the Global Smoke-free Partnership by the American Cancer Society.

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Alique Topalian, a two-time cancer survivor, has used her personal journey with leukemia to advocate for childhood cancer and raise awareness about bone marrow and cord blood donation. After relapsing with AML in 2021, she continued to champion for cancer patients by pursuing a Master’s in Public Health and a Ph.D. in Health Promotion. As a researcher in mental health and resilience, she is dedicated to improving support for patients at all stages of cancer treatment.

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Shubh Goel, is Vice President at AstraZeneca and a leader in oncology commercial strategy. Her work spans immuno-oncology and gastrointestinal tumors, where she has led cross-functional teams to successfully launch products globally. With over 20 years of experience in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, Shubh has held senior roles at Fennec Pharmaceuticals, Celgene, Bayer, and other leading organizations, helping shape the future of cancer treatment and patient care.

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Nicole L. Stout, a pioneer in cancer survivorship and rehabilitation, is the Senior Director of Survivorship and Wellness at the American Cancer Society. Her work has shaped national and international guidelines for survivorship care, ensuring that cancer survivors receive the comprehensive support they need for long-term well-being.  Stout is the co-author of the book 100 Questions and Answers about Lymphedema. She has authored and co-authored over 100 peer-review publications, several book chapters.

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Gretchen Vaughan is the President and CEO of the Kidney Cancer Association (KCA), a role she has held since 2018. Under her leadership, the KCA has grown from an organization focused primarily on professional education to a global leader in research, advocacy, and patient support for those affected by kidney cancer. Before joining KCA, Vaughan spent 12 years in financial services, developing her business acumen, and later moved into the healthcare sector with MD Anderson Cancer Center.

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Trijn Israels, a prominent Pediatric Oncologist at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in Blantyre, Malawi, serves as the Project Leader for “Zero Abandonment from Start to Finish” at CANCaRe Africa. She has been the Chair of CANCaRe Africa since July 2017, focusing on collaborative efforts in childhood cancer care and research across Africa. Additionally, Israels chairs the Wilms Africa Project.

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Katherine Van Loon, an expert in gastrointestinal cancers, has spent years researching the epidemiology of colon cancer and its global impact.  She is the Director of the Global Cancer Program at the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Van loon has recently been appointed as the next Editor-in-Chief of JCO Global Oncology (JCO GO), an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) journal.

Her work continues to advance our understanding of gastrointestinal malignancies, particularly in the developing world, where her research is improving outcomes for patients.

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Celebrating women leaders in oncology is just the beginning of recognizing their impactful contributions. While we’ve highlighted a few extraordinary individuals, countless others deserve recognition. We look forward to your nominations for 2025 and continuing to shine a light on these inspiring women in the future.

Make sure to check out last year’s list.