Gary Doolittle, MD
Dr. Gary Doolittle is the Capitol Federal Masonic Professor of Medicine in the University of Kansas Medical Center Division of Oncology. He also serves as the Medical Director of the Masonic Cancer Alliance, Vice-Chair of Education in the Department of Internal Medicine, and Assistant Dean for the Office of Medical Education. With a subspecialty interest in malignant melanoma, Dr. Doolittle has contributed extensively to oncology literature, focusing on telemedicine in cancer care delivery. He has been instrumental in extending cancer clinical trials to rural Kansas and western Missouri areas through initiatives like the KUCC MCA MU NCORP grant and the Early Therapeutics Cancer Trials Network Grant. Throughout his career, Dr. Doolittle has been committed to improving access to quality cancer care for underserved communities, leveraging technology and collaborative networks to bridge gaps in rural healthcare delivery.
Prakash Neupane, MD
Dr. Prakash Neupane is a board-certified hematologist and medical oncologist at The University of Kansas Cancer Center where he serves as the Director of the Head and Neck Program and is an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He is also the Program Director of the Hematology/Oncology Fellowship. Specializing in head and neck cancers, Dr. Neupane is involved in clinical research and cancer supportive care, contributing to advancements in oncology.
Valerie Davis, CNP
Valerie M. Davis, APRN, is a former nurse practitioner at the Cancer Center of Kansas in Independence, Kansas. She earned her advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) credentials in 2018 and holds a Kansas state license. With over 20 years of diverse experience in nursing, Valerie has been affiliated with several hospitals, including Labette Health, Wilson Medical Center, Fredonia Regional Hospital, and Ascension St. John Jane Phillips.
Phu Truong, MD
Phu V. Truong, MD, is a Wichita-based oncologist and hematologist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas in 1999, completed his residency in 2002, and a fellowship in 2005. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology, he joined the Cancer Center of Kansas in 2005. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Kansas and Oncology Medical Director at Wesley Medical Center. Active in cancer research, he has served as Principal Investigator for the Wichita NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP).
Emily McGovern, DO
Emily McGovern, DO, is a medical oncologist at Lakewood Health System in Staples, Minnesota, specializing in comprehensive cancer care. Originally from Fergus Falls, Minnesota, she is a co-founder of the Rural Cancer Institute, reflecting her deep commitment to addressing disparities in rural healthcare delivery. Dr. McGovern has a professional focus on breast cancer and a research interest in improving access to care, particularly for patients in rural communities. Her work emphasizes innovative strategies to bridge gaps in oncology services, ensuring equitable care for underserved populations. Passionate about advocacy, Dr. McGovern actively works to advance policies and initiatives that improve rural healthcare access and cancer outcomes.
Jasmine Kamboj, MD
Jasmine Kamboj, MD, is a medical oncologist affiliated with the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She has two rural practices in southern Minnesota. Dr. Kamboj is actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), where she has served on multiple committees, including the Climate Task Force and the Government Relations Committee. Her dedication to advocacy and equity in cancer care has been recognized by ASCO, naming her Advocate of the Year in 2021 and including her in the President’s Circle in 2022. She serves as an advisor for the Rural Cancer Institute.
Zack Schroeder
Zack Schroeder is a medical student at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and a passionate advocate for rural healthcare. As a cancer survivor, Zack has dedicated his career to improving rural oncology delivery and addressing healthcare disparities. He is the co-founder and board member of the Rural Cancer Institute, where he leads research projects, advocacy efforts, and outreach initiatives to advance equitable cancer care. Zack is also the founder of Rural Cancer Awareness Day, a nationwide campaign to increase awareness and access to screenings for rural patients.
Wade Swenson, MD, MPH, MBA
Wade Swenson is a medical oncologist focused on improving cancer care delivery in rural communities. Based in Minnesota, Dr. Swenson leads the oncology program at Lakewood Health System and serves as a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of North Dakota. As the founder of the Rural Cancer Institute, he advocates for addressing disparities in rural oncology through research, education, and policy. Dr. Swenson serves on multiple committees for the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the Minnesota Society of Clinical Oncology, and the Minnesota Cancer Alliance. A Presidential Leadership Scholar and National Rural Health Association Fellow, he brings a wealth of expertise to his advocacy efforts.