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Following more than six years of distinguished service, Robert Winn, M.D., director and Lipman Chair in Oncology of the Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, is leaving to assume a new role at Fox Chase Cancer Center. 

Winn joined VCU in 2019 as the fourth director of Massey since its initial National Cancer Institute designation in 1975. Under his leadership, Massey earned the prestigious comprehensive cancer center status in 2023, placing it among the nation’s elite cancer centers as one of just 57 recognized centers in the country. 

“When we recruited Dr. Winn, I asked him to stay at least five years and lead our efforts to achieve comprehensive status,” said VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. “He has fulfilled his promises and has exceeded the timeline, and I am sincerely grateful for Rob’s unmatchable partnership and friendship.”

Throughout his tenure at VCU, Winn led the nation in championing a transformative vision focused on engaging all communities and addressing cancer disparities. He expanded Massey’s presence to more than 60 localities within its NCI-designated catchment area – spanning central, eastern and southern Virginia.

This growth strengthened and expanded Massey’s clinical trials and accruals, fostered collaborative research across multiple disciplines and elevated cancer research training. Additionally, Winn solidified Massey’s future by recruiting internationally renowned leaders and faculty, which has built a deep and talented team in research, clinical care and leadership.

“Rob is truly a pioneer in his field, and we are so grateful for his time and service to VCU and VCU Health,” said Marlon Levy, M.D., senior vice president for VCU Health Sciences and CEO of VCU Health. “His dedication to research, education and reducing cancer disparities is a clear reflection of Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and our health system's core values. The community-based strategy he outlined and implemented at Massey is truly unique, and a model we will continue to diligently follow.”

Winn will remain with VCU through June 16. The university will share interim plans in the coming weeks. 

“Over these last six years, we have so much to be proud of at Massey – from our community engagement efforts to growing our clinical trials and bringing in talented leaders who will continue to do great work here,” Winn said. “I want to extend my sincere and heartfelt thanks to President Michael Rao and Dr. Marlon Levy for their leadership, support, and unwavering commitment to teamwork throughout my time at Massey. Their commitment to collaboration made it possible for us to truly operate as 'one team, one fight,' and I am deeply appreciative of their guidance and trust."

Written by: Danielle Pierce