Nationwide — Dr. Monica Baskin has made history after being named director of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. She became the first African American woman to lead a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center.
Baskin officially started the role on Aug. 3 after receiving approval from the VCU Board of Visitors. She also became the first woman to lead Massey, one of only 73 NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States.
The Atlanta native has spent her career focusing on cancer prevention, early detection, and reducing health gaps among underserved communities. Her dedication to cancer research was shaped by personal experiences, including losing her father to colorectal cancer while she was in high school.
Before joining VCU, Baskin served in leadership roles at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, where she worked on community outreach, health equity, and research programs. She has also secured more than $70 million in National Institutes of Health funding throughout her career.
VCU President Michael Rao said Baskin’s research background and commitment to community-focused cancer care prepared her for the position. He highlighted her work in connecting scientific research with the needs of patients and communities.
Baskin said she was honored to lead Massey and plans to continue advancing cancer research, patient care, and community partnerships. She emphasized the importance of making cancer prevention and treatment accessible to everyone.
“It is an honor to be named as the next director at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center,” Baskin said in a statement, according to Black Enterprise. “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.”
Her appointment comes as cancer researchers continue working to address differences in cancer outcomes among racial and underserved groups. As director, Baskin will lead one of the nation’s leading cancer centers while continuing her work in community-based research.