How long have you been a member of AACE?
5 years
What is your current position and where do you work?
Education Director for the Markey Cancer Center Affiliate Network at the University of Kentucky
How long have you been doing research in the field of cancer education?
In my current role I am not involved in initiating or leading cancer research, but I have the privilege of collaborating with research faculty at UK on a variety of behavioral and clinical research projects. I help connect our 20 affiliate cancer programs, spread across Kentucky, with research opportunities.
How did your interest in the field of cancer education begin?
I learned in graduate school that Kentucky ranks at or near the top in the US when it comes to cancer incidence and mortality. This is a health issue that touches on cultural and social norms, lifestyle factors such as some of the highest rates of smoking, environmental factors, poverty, education and literacy rates – all of which are areas of interest given my public health and education background.
Describe some of your research as it relates to cancer education?
I work with faculty from the Colleges of Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy here at UK to educate our 20 affiliate cancer programs on the latest cancer advances in treatment and research. Recent topics include bispecific antibodies, latest in pancreatic cancer treatment, oncologic emergencies, managing diabetes affecting cancer patients, financial toxicity – a wide variety of topics for both clinicians and non-clinicians.
What motivates you to continue to do research in cancer education?
I’ve always had a passion for education, especially early childhood education. I have a lot of flexibility in my role to focus on different areas of cancer education – this is driven by state cancer data, community needs, feedback from oncology providers, and Commission on Cancer standards. Next year one of my goals is to host a cancer education symposium for youth in rural communities – this is an example of how I can apply my professional interest in education to help make advancements in cancer in this state.
Do you have any advice for individuals interested in pursuing a career in cancer education?
There is so much need for cancer education in a variety of areas and disciplines, both clinical as well as non-clinical. So many students and interns that I speak with think that their only options are medicine or nursing, so it can be eye opening for them when they learn about career opportunities in areas such as data management, navigation, diet and nutrition, administration, etc. All of these experts from these unique fields can help educate others who are involved in cancer care and treatment.