COLUMBUS, Ohio – Bridget Oppong, MD, has been appointed deputy director of the Center for Community Outreach and Engagement at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). A surgical oncologist specializing in the treatment of breast cancer and an active public health researcher, Dr. Oppong also serves as an associate professor in the Ohio State College of Medicine and is a member of the OSUCCC – James Cancer Control Program. Dr. Oppong’s research focuses on health disparities that lead to poorer outcomes and higher mortality rates among patients with breast cancer. Her work investigates racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer management and outcomes that will inform future interventions. She also has interest in improving breast health and cancer care in developing countries. “Dr. Oppong brings both compassion and strong scientific curiosity to her treatment of women and men with breast cancer and pursuit of healthcare questions aimed at improving healthcare outcomes. We are thrilled to have her step into this new leadership role at the CCHE,” says Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of the OSUCCC – James. Dr. Oppong will work alongside Electra Paskett, PhD, MSPH, founding director of the CCHE and associate director for population sciences and community outreach at the OSUCCC – James, and with faculty and staff members in the CCHE. The entire team is focused on community-based cancer awareness health initiatives with emphasis on increasing participating in clinical trials, especially among minority patients. In her role as deputy director, Oppong will work closely with the OSUCCC Clinical Trials Office to drive accrual of women, minorities, rural residents and individuals of all ages to all clinical trials. She will also oversee the clinical outreach efforts of the CCHE, such as the OSUCCC – James mobile mammography unit and clinical services offered at community events.  She participates in the team leading the OSUCCC – James statewide initiative, Turning the Page on Breast Cancer, which focuses on addressing the high breast cancer death rates among Black women in Ohio. Oppong completed her medical degree and residency at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and breast surgical oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering. She joined the Ohio State faculty in August 2019. She is currently conducting a feasibility study of health coaching-based navigation for Black breast cancer survivors. To learn more about the CCHE, visit cancer.osu.edu/CCHE. To learn more about breast cancer treatment at the OSUCCC – James, visit cancer.osu.edu/breastcancer or call 614-293-5066. MEDIA CONTACT: Amanda Harper OSUCCC – James Media Relations Amanda.Harper2@osumc.edu