Blackman Named Admin. Director For GI And Melanoma

Kristen Blackman, MHA, formerly administrative director for clinical operations for Neurosciences and Musculoskeletal Services at Duke University Hospital, was named this fall to serve as administrative director for the DCI’s GI and Melanoma Cancer Programs.

“I am delighted that Kristen elected to continue her career advancement by joining the Duke Cancer Institute team,” said Lori Pickens, MHA, administrator for the Duke Cancer Institute and associate vice president of Oncology Services, DUHS. “We are very fortunate to have her on our team, and I know Kristen’s experience and leadership skills will help to advance the DCI’s objectives in the GI and melanoma programs.”

Blackman joined Duke in 2003 as a patient advocate for Durham Regional Hospital. In 2007 she served as a graduate administrative intern with the Duke Private Diagnostic Clinic, PLLC. From 2008 to 2010, Blackman served as an administrative fellow for Duke Hospital Administration. In 2010 she was named administrative manager for Neurosciences and Musculoskeletal Services. In 2011 Blackman was appointed administrative director for Neurosciences and Musculoskeletal Services.

A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Blackman received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University. She received her Master of Science degree in healthcare administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the Duke Cancer Institute team,” Blackman said. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with a great group of providers and staff to support the continued growth and success of both programs.”

In her new role, Blackman provides overall leadership for the DCI administrative functions of the GI and Melanoma Programs, including clinical operations, financial and human resource management, program development, space and facilities planning and collaborative leadership to support the clinical, academic and research missions of the programs.