Runowicz to chair National Cancer Advisory Board

Dr. Carolyn Runowicz, director of the Health Center's Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and a nationally prominent expert in gynecologic oncology, has been appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as chair of the National Cancer Advisory Board.

The 18-member board includes leading representatives from health and science disciplines.

The board advises and consults with the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services and the director of the National Cancer Institute on its activities, including the review and recommendation of support grants and cooperative agreements.

Runowicz has been a member of the board for the past two years and is the first gynecologic oncologist to be appointed as chair. She will hold the position as chair for two years.

"I am truly honored to assume this position," says Runowicz, who is also President of the American Cancer Society.

"The advisory board will have an important role in addressing the challenges that confront the institute in this current funding climate."

Runowicz has devoted her career to advances in the treatment, early detection, and prevention of cancer.

She joined the Health Center three years ago, and was named president of the American Cancer Society in November 2005 - the first breast cancer survivor to hold the position.

She is a UConn graduate and a 2002 recipient of the Alumni Association's Distinguished Alumni Award.