Stephanie Kowalik Board Member

Stephanie Kowalik is an experienced oncology nurse with over 17 years of professional experience spanning pediatric hematologic malignancies to adult solid tumors, with a primary focus on breast cancer clinical research and patient care. Her career has centered on advancing innovative breast cancer therapies and improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice, education, and equity-driven clinical trial access.

Currently, she supports the groundbreaking I-SPY 2 clinical trial—a national, adaptive platform trial for breast cancer— at the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, where she leads operational implementation, mentors oncology research nurses, and partners closely with sponsors, investigators, and patient communities. Her work emphasizes not only scientific excellence but also the importance of patient-centered care and inclusive trial design.

Driven by a strong commitment to health equity, Stephanie is passionate about addressing barriers that prevent timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services for underserved breast cancer patients. She believes that every individual—regardless of geography, race, income, or background—deserves access to high-quality care and education. Her advocacy is focused on closing gaps in access and outreach, and expanding culturally competent support systems for those most at risk of being left behind.

Stephanie is honored to support Hope Chest’s mission of providing critical resources to breast cancer patients and survivors in need. She brings to the board a deep clinical background, a strong network in oncology research, and a heart for lifting up communities through education, empathy, action, and advocacy.