What we do here
changes lives everywhere
LEARN MORE
About us
At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, our Department of Nursing and Patient Care Services (NPCS) doesn't just strive for excellence — we embody it. We're dedicated to providing excellent compassionate care that goes beyond treatment protocols.
With our collaborative team model, patients and their caregivers are enveloped by a network of highly skilled professionals. Together, we tailor care plans to each individual, ensuring personalized attention and access to cutting-edge clinical research.
We’re building the next generation of the oncology workforce. Explore our Nurse Residency Program and wealth of professional development opportunities. Here, you'll learn from the best and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in cancer care.
Since our establishment in 1947, Dana-Farber has been at the forefront of cancer treatment. We're not just a cancer center — we're pioneers, constantly pushing boundaries and transforming the landscape of cancer care worldwide. Join us in making a difference.
JOIN US
In this video, Anne H. Gross, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer, a patient’s mother, and other members of the NPCS team discuss what relationship-based care means to them.
The Dana-Farber difference
As a transplant from Florida, I decided to pursue a travel nurse assignment as an infusion nurse at Dana-Farber to expand my knowledge base in oncology. I wanted to be a part of an organization that cultivates excellent patient care, innovation, and the value of nursing. What should have been a three-month assignment has turned into a six-year adventure comprised of various professional development opportunities that have led to my current position as a nurse practitioner.
Rhondine King
MSN, FNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner
6
/6
I have worked in various roles in the Jimmy Fund Clinic, including as a clinic nurse, an infusion nurse, a procedure room nurse, and a charge nurse. Working at Dana-Farber has taught me the complexities of outpatient oncology care and how to be a trustworthy and knowledgeable advocate for our patients.
Chelsea Proulx
BSN, RN, CPHON, Infusion Nurse
5
/6
My niece was diagnosed with neuroblastoma many years ago, and after caring for her, my heart's desire was to help patients and their families experiencing a cancer journey. I have grown in my 12 years at Dana-Farber by sharing my experience with new and younger colleagues as a preceptor. It's a joy to see the next generation develop.
Janet Rogers
BSN, RN, OCN, Infusion Nurse
4
/6
I went from being a novice nurse learning the ropes during the Dana-Farber Oncology Nurse Residency Program to now having my oncology certified nurse (OCN) certification. I continue to learn every day from patients, peers, and the continuing education resources offered through Dana-Farber. I have been incredibly privileged to start my nursing career surrounded by these nurses. They've all helped shape the nurse I am today, and I am forever thankful to them.
Alberto Ortega Costa
BSN, RN, OCN, Infusion Nurse
3
/6
No one goes to their primary care office thinking that they have cancer. A cancer diagnosis can shatter a person's world, and I'm proud to work for an organization that never allows patients to feel alone. The nurses and the staff here are uncommonly compassionate to everyone who walks through our doors, whether it be a caregiver, visitor, or patient. It is an honor to be a beacon of hope for them.
Lindsey Ginter
BSN, RN, Clinical Research Nurse
2
/6
As the nurse director of the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Equity Program, I help build equitable access pathways for patients from historically marginalized communities to seek treatment, enabling everyone to have access to our cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care. I'm proud of that.
Ludmila Svoboda
MSN, RN, OCN, Nurse Director, Cancer Care Equity Program
1
/6
Highlights
Honored for Advancing Oncology
Nursing Practice
Recognized with Five Consecutive
Magnet Designations
Oncology Program Earns Prestigious
Accreditation with Distinction
Recognized for Excellence
in Patient Experience
Leading the Way in Cancer Care
through National Collaborations
Distinguished NCI-Designated
Comprehensive Cancer Center
A National Leader in Adult and
Pediatric Cancer Care
Pioneering Cancer Drug
Development
Spearheading Cancer Research with
Over 1,100 Clinical Trials
Dana-Farber was the recipient of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) 2023 Outstanding Employer Award, which recognizes one organization annually for the investment it makes in the advancement of oncology nursing practice through research and evidence-based practice.
Dana-Farber has been designated five times since 2005 as a Magnet organization by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), most recently in March 2024. This gold standard for nursing is an honor granted to less than 10% of hospitals nationally and represents Dana-Farber's ongoing commitment to providing patients and caregivers with the most expert, compassionate nursing care. Out of approximately 6,200 hospitals and health systems nationwide, less than 1% have achieved five consecutive Magnet designations.
Dana-Farber’s Oncology Nurse Residency Program has been awarded accreditation with distinction from the Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) at the ANCC. PTAP is a global standard for residency and fellowship programs and highlights our commitment to training the next generation of oncology nurses.
Dana-Farber Inpatient Hospital, located within Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has been recognized by Press Ganey for the Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence Award and the HX Pinnacle of Excellence Award in the category of patience experience. The awards honor leading healthcare organizations that have maintained high levels of excellence in patient experience, employee experience, safety, and quality.
Dana-Farber is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). NCCN is a nonprofit alliance of 33 leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care so all patients can live better lives.
Dana-Farber is a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. There are 72 NCI-Designated Cancer Centers located in 36 states and the District of Columbia, and 56 are Comprehensive Cancer Centers. These centers are recognized for their leadership and resources, in addition to demonstrating an added depth and breadth of research, as well as substantial transdisciplinary research that bridges these scientific areas.
Dana-Farber is the only hospital ranked in the top five nationally by U.S. News & World Report in both adult and pediatric cancer care.
Dana-Farber investigators played a substantial role in developing more than half of all cancer drugs approved by the FDA in the past five years.
Dana-Farber is a national leader in conducting clinical trials and currently has more than 1,100 active clinical trials.
Read what colleagues and patients have to say about Dana-Farber nurses
Jennifer Andre
Jennifer Andre
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Jen Andre is a devoted, hardworking, compassionate, and attentive nurse in a challenging clinical practice. Jen joined Dana-Farber in 2022 as one of our program nurses in the Center for Neuro-Oncology, supporting a busy clinical practice and set of practitioners. Jen quickly learned the ropes of caring for patients with brain tumors — no easy feat — through endless curiosity and sheer determination. Since day one, for every patient I was seeing, Jen would ask me not just to review their clinical course and major active issues, but to also go over the details of their diagnosis, review their brain MRIs, and map out their treatment possibilities. This level of engagement in the minutiae of clinical care is usually reserved for physicians, but Jen wanted to understand her patients from all angles. Over time, Jen has developed a superb knowledge of neuro-oncology, which she pairs with a boundless desire to help our patients. She strives to see and speak to as many of our patients as possible every day, adding much-needed insight into their lives and struggles that are not easily captured in a 20-minute doctor’s visit. It is not uncommon for patients to look directly to Jen with questions or concerns — she is their “go-to person.” The last few years have seen many changes and challenges to health care across the country, and Jen has been invaluable in helping us navigate these somewhat turbulent times. Nominated by Ricardo McFaline-Figueroa
Emma Dann
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber brings cutting-edge care to communities beyond Boston through six regional campuses in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Emma Dann is the vice president and associate chief nurse for Nursing and Patient Care Services in this expanded Dana-Farber system. I have had the privilege of working with this innovative executive nurse leader for the past eight years. My sentiments below are echoed by many nurses in every corner of Dana-Farber. Emma is passionate about her work. She influences me and my nursing colleagues to aspire to the highest standards. Emma challenges us to think creatively, always listening intently and guiding us to recognize new paths and ways to best care for our patients and families. She is our role model and a caring colleague. This inspiring mentor knows no limit in knowing her nurses and supporting our professional growth. Emma is authentic and trusting. She embraces challenges as new opportunities. We deeply appreciate Emma’s open expressions of gratitude for contributions that we have made. I speak personally and for many Dana-Faber nurses in thanking Emma for her trust, caring, and the immense joy she brings each day she walks through our doors.
Nominated by Fran Leonard
Danielle (Dani) Fitzpatrick
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
As a repeat customer, I have witnessed and directly benefited from Dani’s boundless energy and unsurpassed professionalism. Despite the demands of being an infusion nurse, she treats me as if I am her primary concern, patiently explaining every element of treatment and ensuring my comfort from the moment I arrive. Her passion for her profession is only matched by her genuine care for her patients.
Nominated by Dan Devine
Carolyn Goldhammer
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
My wife, Susan, has been fighting her cancer for six years now. With twice-a-week infusions, it takes quite a toll. Carolyn makes a tough situation a tolerable experience. Dana-Farber has such a valuable nurse who takes special care of my wife, Sue, not to mention all the staff who do what they do.
Nominated by Joe Manfredi
Margaret Julio
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
The second I heard Margaret ask, “How is our little Frankie doing today?” my heart rate would decrease immediately to a steady pace. When my four-year-old was diagnosed with cancer and spent seven months receiving chemotherapy at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, our nurse Margaret became like family. Her calm, humorous demeanor brought solace to us in our most trying time. Quickly realizing Frankie was not a fan of the arts and crafts frequently provided by the Jimmy Fund, Margaret would talk to him about Boston sports teams, his favorite topic. When Frankie was having a tough day or not wanting to talk, she would bring a smile to his face. In those seven months, she was the person I talked to the most, as Frankie’s chemo medicine slowly dripped through his port each day. She always made Frankie feel comfortable, and the friendship and support she provided for me was immeasurable. Margaret’s kindness is something I will hold with me for the rest of my life. When asked in a work training what my favorite sound in the world was, I instantly replied, “The voice of Frankie’s oncology nurse.”
Nominated by Marnie Eaton
Cheri Manzi
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Cheri is such a pleasure to be around. She is always positive and cares for the patients as well as the staff around her. She is always willing to help and goes above and beyond to provide the most outstanding care to our patients.
Nominated by Heather Morley
Jennifer A. Stefanik
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Jenn Stefanik has been my lead neuro-oncology nurse since I came to Dana-Farber in February 2019. She has been a rock for me and my family. She communicates complicated clinical information effectively and with compassion, and in two years of treatment, she has never failed to be responsive to questions about treatment or get back to me with answers. Since I completed treatment and went on long-term monitoring, we only see her every three or four months, but we will always be grateful.
Nominated by Christopher Barnett
Jennifer A. Stefanik
The opportunity to change a life begins with Dana-Farber
JOIN US
What we do here
changes lives everywhere
LEARN MORE
About us
At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, our Department of Nursing and Patient Care Services (NPCS) doesn't just strive for excellence — we embody it. We're dedicated to providing excellent compassionate care that goes beyond treatment protocols.
With our collaborative team model, patients and their caregivers are enveloped by a network of highly skilled professionals. Together, we tailor care plans to each individual, ensuring personalized attention and access to cutting-edge clinical research.
We’re building the next generation of the oncology workforce. Explore our Nurse Residency Program and wealth of professional development opportunities. Here, you'll learn from the best and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in cancer care.
Since our establishment in 1947, Dana-Farber has been at the forefront of cancer treatment. We're not just a cancer center — we're pioneers, constantly pushing boundaries and transforming the landscape of cancer care worldwide. Join us in making a difference.
JOIN US
In this video, Anne H. Gross, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer, a patient’s mother, and other members of the NPCS team discuss what relationship-based care means to them.
Highlights
Honored for Advancing Oncology
Nursing Practice
Recognized with Five Consecutive
Magnet Designations
Oncology Program Earns Prestigious
Accreditation with Distinction
Recognized for Excellence
in Patient Experience
Leading the Way in Cancer Care
through National Collaborations
Distinguished NCI-Designated
Comprehensive Cancer Center
A National Leader in Adult and
Pediatric Cancer Care
Pioneering Cancer Drug
Development
Spearheading Cancer Research with
Over 1,100 Clinical Trials
Dana-Farber was the recipient of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) 2023 Outstanding Employer Award, which recognizes one organization annually for the investment it makes in the advancement of oncology nursing practice through research and evidence-based practice.
Dana-Farber has been designated five times since 2005 as a Magnet organization by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), most recently in March 2024. This gold standard for nursing is an honor granted to less than 10% of hospitals nationally and represents Dana-Farber's ongoing commitment to providing patients and caregivers with the most expert, compassionate nursing care. Out of approximately 6,200 hospitals and health systems nationwide, less than 1% have achieved five consecutive Magnet designations.
Dana-Farber’s Oncology Nurse Residency Program has been awarded accreditation with distinction from the Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) at the ANCC. PTAP is a global standard for residency and fellowship programs and highlights our commitment to training the next generation of oncology nurses.
Dana-Farber Inpatient Hospital, located within Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has been recognized by Press Ganey for the Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence Award and the HX Pinnacle of Excellence Award in the category of patience experience. The awards honor leading healthcare organizations that have maintained high levels of excellence in patient experience, employee experience, safety, and quality.
Dana-Farber is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). NCCN is a nonprofit alliance of 33 leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care so all patients can live better lives.
Dana-Farber is a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. There are 72 NCI-Designated Cancer Centers located in 36 states and the District of Columbia, and 56 are Comprehensive Cancer Centers. These centers are recognized for their leadership and resources, in addition to demonstrating an added depth and breadth of research, as well as substantial transdisciplinary research that bridges these scientific areas.
Dana-Farber is the only hospital ranked in the top five nationally by U.S. News & World Report in both adult and pediatric cancer care.
Dana-Farber investigators played a substantial role in developing more than half of all cancer drugs approved by the FDA in the past five years.
Dana-Farber is a national leader in conducting clinical trials and currently has more than 1,100 active clinical trials.
The Dana-Farber difference
As a transplant from Florida, I decided to pursue a travel nurse assignment as an infusion nurse at Dana-Farber to expand my knowledge base in oncology. I wanted to be a part of an organization that cultivates excellent patient care, innovation, and the value of nursing. What should have been a three-month assignment has turned into a six-year adventure comprised of various professional development opportunities that have led to my current position as a nurse practitioner.
Rhondine King
MSN, FNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner
6
/6
I have worked in various roles in the Jimmy Fund Clinic, including as a clinic nurse, an infusion nurse, a procedure room nurse, and a charge nurse. Working at Dana-Farber has taught me the complexities of outpatient oncology care and how to be a trustworthy and knowledgeable advocate for our patients.
Chelsea Proulx
BSN, RN, CPHON, Infusion Nurse
5
/6
My niece was diagnosed with neuroblastoma many years ago, and after caring for her, my heart's desire was to help patients and their families experiencing a cancer journey. I have grown in my 12 years at Dana-Farber by sharing my experience with new and younger colleagues as a preceptor. It's a joy to see the next generation develop.
Janet Rogers
BSN, RN, OCN, Infusion Nurse
4
/6
I went from being a novice nurse learning the ropes during the Dana-Farber Oncology Nurse Residency Program to now having my oncology certified nurse (OCN) certification. I continue to learn every day from patients, peers, and the continuing education resources offered through Dana-Farber. I have been incredibly privileged to start my nursing career surrounded by these nurses. They've all helped shape the nurse I am today, and I am forever thankful to them.
Alberto Ortega Costa
BSN, RN, OCN, Infusion Nurse
3
/6
No one goes to their primary care office thinking that they have cancer. A cancer diagnosis can shatter a person's world, and I'm proud to work for an organization that never allows patients to feel alone. The nurses and the staff here are uncommonly compassionate to everyone who walks through our doors, whether it be a caregiver, visitor, or patient. It is an honor to be a beacon of hope for them.
Lindsey Ginter
BSN, RN, Clinical Research Nurse
2
/6
As the nurse director of the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Equity Program, I help build equitable access pathways for patients from historically marginalized communities to seek treatment, enabling everyone to have access to our cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care. I'm proud of that.
Ludmila Svoboda
MSN, RN, OCN, Nurse Director, Cancer Care Equity Program
1
/6
Read what colleagues and patients have to say about Dana-Farber nurses
Jennifer Andre
Jennifer Andre
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Jen Andre is a devoted, hardworking, compassionate, and attentive nurse in a challenging clinical practice. Jen joined Dana-Farber in 2022 as one of our program nurses in the Center for Neuro-Oncology, supporting a busy clinical practice and set of practitioners. Jen quickly learned the ropes of caring for patients with brain tumors — no easy feat — through endless curiosity and sheer determination. Since day one, for every patient I was seeing, Jen would ask me not just to review their clinical course and major active issues, but to also go over the details of their diagnosis, review their brain MRIs, and map out their treatment possibilities. This level of engagement in the minutiae of clinical care is usually reserved for physicians, but Jen wanted to understand her patients from all angles. Over time, Jen has developed a superb knowledge of neuro-oncology, which she pairs with a boundless desire to help our patients. She strives to see and speak to as many of our patients as possible every day, adding much-needed insight into their lives and struggles that are not easily captured in a 20-minute doctor’s visit. It is not uncommon for patients to look directly to Jen with questions or concerns — she is their “go-to person.” The last few years have seen many changes and challenges to health care across the country, and Jen has been invaluable in helping us navigate these somewhat turbulent times. Nominated by Ricardo McFaline-Figueroa
Emma Dann
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber brings cutting-edge care to communities beyond Boston through six regional campuses in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Emma Dann is the vice president and associate chief nurse for Nursing and Patient Care Services in this expanded Dana-Farber system. I have had the privilege of working with this innovative executive nurse leader for the past eight years. My sentiments below are echoed by many nurses in every corner of Dana-Farber. Emma is passionate about her work. She influences me and my nursing colleagues to aspire to the highest standards. Emma challenges us to think creatively, always listening intently and guiding us to recognize new paths and ways to best care for our patients and families. She is our role model and a caring colleague. This inspiring mentor knows no limit in knowing her nurses and supporting our professional growth. Emma is authentic and trusting. She embraces challenges as new opportunities. We deeply appreciate Emma’s open expressions of gratitude for contributions that we have made. I speak personally and for many Dana-Faber nurses in thanking Emma for her trust, caring, and the immense joy she brings each day she walks through our doors.
Nominated by Fran Leonard
Danielle (Dani) Fitzpatrick
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
As a repeat customer, I have witnessed and directly benefited from Dani’s boundless energy and unsurpassed professionalism. Despite the demands of being an infusion nurse, she treats me as if I am her primary concern, patiently explaining every element of treatment and ensuring my comfort from the moment I arrive. Her passion for her profession is only matched by her genuine care for her patients.
Nominated by Dan Devine
Carolyn Goldhammer
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
My wife, Susan, has been fighting her cancer for six years now. With twice-a-week infusions, it takes quite a toll. Carolyn makes a tough situation a tolerable experience. Dana-Farber has such a valuable nurse who takes special care of my wife, Sue, not to mention all the staff who do what they do.
Nominated by Joe Manfredi
Margaret Julio
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
The second I heard Margaret ask, “How is our little Frankie doing today?” my heart rate would decrease immediately to a steady pace. When my four-year-old was diagnosed with cancer and spent seven months receiving chemotherapy at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, our nurse Margaret became like family. Her calm, humorous demeanor brought solace to us in our most trying time. Quickly realizing Frankie was not a fan of the arts and crafts frequently provided by the Jimmy Fund, Margaret would talk to him about Boston sports teams, his favorite topic. When Frankie was having a tough day or not wanting to talk, she would bring a smile to his face. In those seven months, she was the person I talked to the most, as Frankie’s chemo medicine slowly dripped through his port each day. She always made Frankie feel comfortable, and the friendship and support she provided for me was immeasurable. Margaret’s kindness is something I will hold with me for the rest of my life. When asked in a work training what my favorite sound in the world was, I instantly replied, “The voice of Frankie’s oncology nurse.”
Nominated by Marnie Eaton
Cheri Manzi
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Cheri is such a pleasure to be around. She is always positive and cares for the patients as well as the staff around her. She is always willing to help and goes above and beyond to provide the most outstanding care to our patients.
Nominated by Heather Morley
Jennifer A. Stefanik
Jennifer A. Stefanik
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Jenn Stefanik has been my lead neuro-oncology nurse since I came to Dana-Farber in February 2019. She has been a rock for me and my family. She communicates complicated clinical information effectively and with compassion, and in two years of treatment, she has never failed to be responsive to questions about treatment or get back to me with answers. Since I completed treatment and went on long-term monitoring, we only see her every three or four months, but we will always be grateful.
Nominated by Christopher Barnett
The opportunity to change a life begins with Dana-Farber
JOIN US