Karen Winkfield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Karen Winkfield
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| Born | 1970 (age 54–55) |
| Alma mater | Binghamton University Duke University School of Medicine |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Radiation oncology, health equity |
| Institutions | Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Vanderbilt University |
Karen Marie Winkfield (born 1970) is an American doctor who specializes in radiation oncology. This field uses radiation to treat diseases like cancer. She is also a scientist who studies how to make healthcare better for everyone. Dr. Winkfield is a top professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
Early Life and Education
Karen Winkfield was born in 1970. She faced challenges in her early life regarding getting a formal education. However, she was very determined to learn and succeed.
She earned her first degree in biochemistry from Binghamton University. Later, she went to Duke University School of Medicine. There, she earned two advanced degrees: a Ph.D. in pathology in 2004 and an M.D. (Medical Doctor) degree in 2005. Karen Winkfield was only the second African-American woman to complete this special medical scientist program at Duke. After that, she completed her training in radiation oncology at Harvard University.
Career and Contributions
Dr. Winkfield has held important roles in healthcare. She worked at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. There, she helped connect the hospital with the community. She also led efforts to make healthcare fair for all people.
In 2020, Dr. Winkfield joined Vanderbilt University. She is now the executive director of the Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance. This group works to improve health and education in the community. She is also a professor of radiation oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Dr. Winkfield helped start the Association of Black Radiation Oncologists. She is also a scientist who focuses on making healthcare fair for everyone. She uses her experience working with communities to improve health equity. She also helps lead a group that fights against COVID-19 health differences. This group is part of the NIH.
In September 2021, the U.S. president, Joe Biden, chose Dr. Winkfield to be on the National Cancer Advisory Board. This board gives advice on cancer research and treatment. She was also named one of the 100 most influential women in oncology (cancer care) by OncoDaily.
Personal Life
Karen Winkfield's husband, Jeffrey Walker, had a serious illness. He passed away in 2018 from complications of his disease. His medical journey deeply influenced Dr. Winkfield. It inspired her to become a strong supporter for patients and their families. She now works to make sure patients get the best care and support.
See also
