In episode two of our WNY Changemakers series, I amhonored to be joined by Dr. Meghan Underhill, Assistant Professor at the University of Rochester School of Nursing, a member of Cancer Control and Prevention at the Wilmot Cancer Institute, and a Nurse Practitioner at the Wilmot Cancer Institute.

Did you know that our Western New York Community is home to some of the best cancer research and treatment facilities in the United States? Rochester proudly hosts an NCI-designated cancer center—a distinction held by less than 4% of cancer facilities nationwide.

Within, Meghan shares the real impact this bringsto our region—from expanding opportunities for groundbreaking research, to making treatment more accessible throughout the community. She also highlights the importance of this designation in helping to recruit and train care providers.

In addition to her research, Meghan provides direct patientcare. She discusses the importance of treating patients holistically, including recognizing the essential role caregivers play throughout the cancer journey. Her commitment to ensuring the patient’s perspective is at the forefront of care is both powerful and inspiring.

Meghan explains that the best research starts with identifying real-world clinical problems:

“The most important thing that drives the next researchproject is finding a problem in the clinical setting. That helps determine our next steps.”
She shares how data collection—through interviews, surveys, and direct patient conversations—serves as a powerful tool to evaluate those needs and guide future solutions.

We also explore how Wilmot and the University of Rochesterpartner with community organizations to extend care beyond the clinic. That includes outreach, education, and collaboration with groups like 13thirty Cancer Connect, whosupport young adults with cancer.

The work being done at the University of Rochester School ofNursing and the Wilmot Cancer Institute is a source of deep pride for our region. As Meghan shares in this episode:

“Feel proud of the work that is being done and do notkeep our Rochester area a secret. There is world-class work happening…”

As we wrap up, Meghan reflects on her identity in this fieldby saying:

“All of this was made possible because I became a nurse… There are so many opportunities to try and be and grow into something new event within the profession.”

The difference Meghan is making in our community—alongside the University of Rochester School of Nursing and Wilmot—is inspiring. Meghan, thank you for highlighting the incredible work happening right here in WNY. You are a true WNY Changemaker.

Links to Information Referenced in the Episode:

Meghan Underhill | LinkedIn

Home | University of Rochester School of Nursing

Wilmot Cancer Institute - University of Rochester Medical Center

13thirty.org | Helping Teens & Young Adult with Cancer Live Their Very Best Lives - TODAY!

Bio:

Meghan Underhill is an assistant professor at the University of Rochester School of Nursing, a member of Cancer Control and Prevention at the Wilmot Cancer Institute, and a nurse practitioner at the Wilmot Cancer Institute.

Underhill has dedicated her career to understanding the experiences of and improving care for individuals and families living with inherited cancer risk. As an active nurse practitioner within the Hereditary Cancer Program, her program of research focuses on building and implementing clinical innovations that transform the focus of cancer genetics from an illness model to a wellness focused model that directly responds to the needs of individuals and families. She has widely disseminated research findings both through publications and presentations and has served as the nurse scientist on multidisciplinary teams which has had national and international impact. She has worked to share her research expertise with others and has provided long-lasting successful research mentorship to multiple pre and postdoctoral nursing trainees.