The Evolving Oncology Social Worker
As I step into the role of President of the Association of Oncology Social Work, I do so with deep gratitude for this community and a strong sense of responsibility to the work we share. Oncology social work has always required adaptability, compassion, and creativity. Today, however, our role continues to evolve in ways that call on us not only to respond to need but to lead with intention, integrity, and accountability.
We are practicing in a time marked by persistent inequities throughout our world, and cancer care often reflects a microcosm of these larger injustices. As oncology social workers, we see daily how structural racism and longstanding social and economic inequities shape who, how and when people are diagnosed, who receives treatment, what type and when, and how individuals and families experience cancer. Anti-racist practice is not an “add-on” to our work; it is foundational to ethical and effective oncology social work, requiring us to challenge inequitable systems and advocate for care that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and just.
At the same time, we’re facing growing instability in funding for cancer research and nonprofit healthcare systems. These realities affect staffing, access to care, and the ability to sustain services over time. For oncology social workers, this isn’t happening in the background—it’s present every day in our work with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
Oncology social workers are uniquely positioned to meet this moment. We sit with patients and families during some of their most vulnerable moments, while also seeing how systems shape the cancer experience. That dual perspective allows us to bring real patient and family experiences into advocacy conversations and to help shape care and psychosocial support that truly meet people where they are.
As the field of oncology evolves, so too must we as oncology social workers. We are clinicians, advocates, educators, collaborators, and systems thinkers—essential contributors to ethical, holistic patient-centered cancer care. Our voices are crucial not only in patient care but also in leadership spaces where decisions about policy, funding, and the future of cancer care are made.
I cannot reflect on leadership without expressing my deep gratitude to our Board of Directors for its tireless work. Their dedication, creativity, and thoughtful leadership continue to inspire and guide us, ensuring that we not only provide excellent care today but also help shape the future of oncology care. I also want to extend heartfelt thanks to our immediate Past President, Linda Mathew, for her steady and compassionate leadership over the past year. I am deeply appreciative that she remains an integral part of our leadership, both as past president and as a key member of our new Sponsorship Committee. This committee plays a vital role in supporting AOSW’s long-term financial stability and sustainability, particularly as healthcare funding remains unpredictable and increasingly complex.
Connection to our members remains at the heart of AOSW’s mission. This organization exists to support you, oncology social workers —to amplify your voices, respond to your needs, and foster a professional home where you can learn, grow, and lead together. Please know that the Board and I are always available to you, and we welcome your questions, ideas, and concerns.
We want to know: What can AOSW do to fuel your growth, leadership, and impact in oncology social work?
In that spirit, I am pleased to share a new initiative: AOSW Townhall. This effort will include quarterly town hall meetings where all members are invited to connect directly with the Board, hear organizational updates, and share perspectives on the issues that matter most to you. These conversations are intended to promote transparency, collaboration, and shared vision. Our first Town Hall will be on Tuesday, March 17, from 2 to 3 p.m. ET. Please look for more information in the coming weeks.
As we move forward together, I encourage you to stay engaged—participate in AOSW initiatives, join these conversations, and continue to bring your expertise, commitment, vision, and advocacy into every space you occupy. The challenges before us are real, but so is our collective strength. Oncology social workers have always been essential, and our leadership has never been more needed.
I am honored to serve as your President and deeply grateful for the work we will continue to do—together.
