The transition in leadership of the SWOG Cancer Research Network Lymphoma Committee highlights two prominent figures in oncology: Dr. Jonathan Friedberg and Dr. Sonali Smith.
Dr. Jonathan Friedberg
Dr. Friedberg has served as the Chair of the SWOG Lymphoma Committee for over a decade. He is the Director of the Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester and is recognized globally for his work in developing novel therapies for lymphoma.
In 2021, he was appointed Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO), the flagship journal of ASCO. His tenure is noted for advancing clinical trials that have significantly impacted treatment standards for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Dr. Sonali Smith
Dr. Smith, who has been the Vice-Chair of the SWOG Lymphoma Committee, is now stepping into the role of Chair. She is the Elwood V. Jensen Professor and Chief of the Hematology/Oncology Section at the University of Chicago, where she also directs the Adult Lymphoma Program. ‘
An expert in treatment-naïve and relapsed/refractory lymphomas, she has authored nearly 200 publications and is the first woman to serve as section chief in her department at the University of Chicago. She is highly regarded for her focus on education, having received the ASCO Excellence in Teaching Award.
Mazyar Shadman, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Fred Hutch, Professor of the Department of Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology Division at the University of Washington, shared on LinkedIn:
“Appreciation to Dr. Jonathan Friedberg as he steps down as Chair of the SWOG Cancer Research Network Lymphoma Committee.
His leadership, mentorship, and vision have had a lasting impact on the committee and the field. We’ve learned a great deal from him; he truly led by example over the past 10+ years.
I’ve been fortunate to be part of this group during that time and look forward to working with Dr. Sonali Smith as she steps into this role and continues to move the field forward.”
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