VCU Massey Cancer Center names new division of neuro-oncology chief
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Mariza Daras, MD, has been appointed chief of the division of neuro-oncology at VCU Massey Cancer Center.
Daras assumed the role on Sept. 1. She previously served as associate professor of neurology in the division of neuro-oncology at University of California, San Francisco. Daras specializes in the treatment of glioblastoma, meningioma and low-grade glioma.
“I’m excited to help develop a program that serves Richmond’s diverse community and provides care that will help patients [with brain tumors] live better and longer,” Daras said in a press release. “It’s important to advocate for patients to have access to clinical trials and novel therapies. Clinical trials for patients with brain tumors haven’t always included people most affected. I’m excited to be part of a growing effort to design more inclusive trials that are representative of everyone in our community and can better inform the real-world treatment of patients.”
Daras is currently a member of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), Society for Neuro-Oncology and ASCO. She is also an appointed member of AAN’s Committee on Public Engagement, which is dedicated to diversifying the neuro-oncology workforce, according to the release.
“We’re thrilled to have Dr. Daras’s expertise and leadership in growing a clinical translational and research program that meets the complex needs of patients with brain and other central nervous system tumors,” Paula Fracasso, MD, PhD, deputy director and senior vice president of the cancer service line at VCU Health at Massey Cancer Center, said in the release. “She brings a collaborative approach that will strengthen our multi-disciplinary services and improve patient access and care.”
“Dr. Daras is a nationally prominent clinician-scientist who is passionate about ensuring every person with a brain tumor has access to the highest quality care, including exciting experimental therapies,” Gordon Smith, MD, professor and chair of the department of neurology at VCU School of Medicine, said in the release.
“Her collaborative and humanistic approach to health care will serve our community and the commonwealth well. I couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to VCU,” he said.
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