The University of Michigan (U-M) Comprehensive Cancer Center in Ann Arbor has named Kathleen Cooney, MD, as Deputy Director for Clinical Services.
Dr. Cooney is Frances and Victor Ginsberg Professor of Hematology/Oncology and Chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the U-M Medical School and has been serving as interim Medical Director for the Cancer Center since 2011.
This newly created position will encompass overseeing and coordinating clinical activities throughout the spectrum of cancer care at U-M. This includes outpatient facilities, inpatient cancer units, cancer clinical programs at satellite locations, and the development of a network of community partners.
Expanded Role
“Dr. Cooney’s outstanding leadership and administrative skills and knowledge of cancer clinical operations make her eminently qualified to assume this expanded role. Under her leadership, the University of Michigan and the Cancer Center have the opportunity to create programs of clinical excellence, which will serve as a model for cancer programs nationally,” said Max S. Wicha, MD, Director of the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center.
As Deputy Director, Dr. Cooney will look broadly at cancer care across the entire University of Michigan Health System, with a goal of incorporating best clinical practices at all locations and integrating support services for all patients.
“The Cancer Center has grown tremendously in the 25 years since it was founded,” Dr. Cooney said. “Patients with cancer are seen at many locations throughout our institution and we need to make sure our patients receive the best treatment and care regardless of where we’re seeing them.”
Dr. Cooney received her medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and completed residency training and a fellowship at the University of Michigan Medical School. She joined the U-M faculty in 1991, where her clinical interests focus in the treatment of men with prostate cancer.
Dr. Cooney’s research focuses on identifying genetic defects in in hereditary prostate cancer. Her work led to the recent identification of a novel prostate cancer susceptibility gene, HOXB13 on chromosome 17.
Dr. Cooney’s appointment was effective January 1. ■
