Carolyn Runowicz, MD
Dr. Carolyn D. Runowicz is a nationally recognized leader in gynecologic oncology and a tireless advocate for women’s health. She made history as the first woman president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists and played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s future. During her leadership, she proposed changing the society’s name to the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, reflecting her vision for the current broad, science-driven, multidisciplinary organization that we are today. This change was ultimately adopted in 2011. Visionary impact has been a cornerstone of her career. During her SGO Presidential address, Dr. Runowicz made the bold statement that innovation in systemic therapies would revolutionize how we treat gynecologic cancers…how true those words are today. Dr. Runowicz is also well known for elevating the important link between breast and gynecologic cancers in public awareness, and in the management of these diseases given their shared genetic and hormonal drivers of disease.
“As the first woman to lead the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, I’ve spent my career breaking barriers in women’s health and medical education – guiding national organizations, shaping medical schools, and opening pathways for those who will carry this work even further,” said Dr. Runowicz. Throughout her career, Dr. Runowicz has combined clinical leadership, research, and advocacy to advance prevention, treatment, and survivorship for women affected by gynecologic and breast cancers. A breast cancer survivor herself, diagnosed in 1992, Dr. Runowicz has shared that her personal experience with the disease deepened her empathy for patients and strengthened her commitment to advancing cancer care.
We are so grateful for the pioneering leadership and watershed impact of Dr. Runowicz. As a landmark leader for our field, Dr. Runowicz is truly an inspiration. Her fortitude and visionary leadership challenges us to dream big and to go the distance for patients through education, research and awareness. In honor of Women’s History Month, we recognize Dr. Runowicz for her groundbreaking leadership, and her continued and lasting impact on the field of gynecologic oncology and women’s cancer care.