Dr. Sara Hurvitz: Leadership, Innovation and Compassion in Oncology

In this episode of the Oncology Insights Podcast, host Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO, speaks with Sara Hurvitz, MD, FACP, senior vice president of Fred Hutch's Clinical Research Division and head of the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. Hurvitz reflects on her journey from California to leading-edge oncology research and shares insights on clinical trials, multidisciplinary care, community outreach and the importance of diverse perspectives in leadership. In this episode: Dr. Hurvitz's personal and professional journey from Northern California to Seattle The significance of patient-oncologist relationships and clinical research impact The importance of interdisciplinary teamwork and rapid access in patient care Strategies for successful multi-site trials and community engagement Leadership lessons: listening, decisiveness and collaboration The role of women and underrepresented groups in medical leadership Personal stories, including memorable moments in Greece and family life   Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Dr. Hurvitz's leadership journey 03:34 - Inspiration from AIDS-related lymphoma research at USC 06:28 - The significance and challenges of clinical trials in oncology 09:31 - The collaboration between lab research and patient care 11:50 - The role and impact of neoadjuvant trials in breast and bladder cancer 14:01 - Expanding trials through multi-site collaborations in the Pacific Northwest 17:11 - Multidisciplinary care and rapid patient access initiatives 20:10 - Building community relationships and outreach strategies 24:13 - Key leadership qualities: listening, decisiveness, humility 26:46 - Promoting women and varied perspectives in leadership roles