Duke Health Establishes New Endowed Clinical Directorship in Cancer Care
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DURHAM, N.C. – Duke University Health System (DUHS) has established a new endowed clinical directorship to advance cancer care thanks to a $2.5 million gift from an anonymous couple with deep ties to Duke Health.
The donors were inspired to make the gift because of their belief in Duke’s ability to lead bold advances in cancer research and care. The directorship will provide opportunities to innovate, mentor, engage in community health initiatives, build and enhance programs, and invest in technology.
Rather than use their own names, the donors wanted to honor a pioneer and leader in the field instead. The distinction has been named the Joseph O. Moore, M.D., Directorship in Oncology.
Moore served as an esteemed medical oncologist at Duke’s Cancer Center and as the first medical director of the Duke Raleigh Cancer Center. He cared for hundreds of patients with leukemia and lymphoma, many of whom he followed for more than 30 years.
His clinical research focused on finding new therapies for acute myeloid and lymphoid leukemia, malignant lymphoma, and chronic myeloid leukemia. His work contributed to the development of several fundamental tenants of care, including therapies to mitigate the toxic effects of chemotherapy and myelosuppression.
Moore also trained generations of residents, fellows, and faculty in complex care of patients with hematologic malignancies. He retired from clinical practice in 2019 after 44 years at Duke.
The first person named to the appointment is Diane Reidy-Lagunes, M.D., chief of the Division of Medical Oncology and professor of medicine in the Department of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine.
Reidy-Lagunes joined Duke in April, bringing two decades of nationally recognized expertise. That includes leading clinical trials that resulted in practice-changing therapies, such as a therapy for adrenal cancer that was added to national treatment guidelines.
“I am elated and incredibly honored to receive this appointment,” said Reidy-Lagunes. “This role allows us to strategically integrate medical, surgical, and radiation oncology to deliver patient-centered care that’s not just about the cancer, but about the whole person.”
In November, Reidy-Lagunes will expand her role to become physician vice president of cancer services for DUHS, leading clinical strategy with a focus on ensuring the growth of cancer care services is patient-centered and mission-aligned.
“Endowed Directorships are the highest honor that Duke University Health System bestows on its clinical leaders,” said Thomas A. Owens, M.D., executive vice president and chief operating officer of DUHS.
“Dr. Reidy-Lagunes brings a rare combination of clinical excellence, research leadership, and a deep commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care,” Owens said. “Her vision for integrating oncology disciplines and mentoring the next generation of leaders aligns perfectly with Duke’s mission to deliver world-class care and innovation.”
The new endowed clinical directorship is the first for DUHS in more than a decade and only the second in the system’s history.