WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital Cancer Center
Karen Bowling , president and CEO of WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital and executive vice president of government affairs for WVU Medicine , is working on a project to create a positive impact on the health of West Virginians .
“ We have developed architectural plans for a new cancer center to include lab services , oncology pharmacy , outpatient infusions and radiation oncology on the Princeton campus .”
The project , named the WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital Cancer Center , will help create a holistic environment that allows patients to receive state-of-the-art cancer care close to home . This project will improve access and bring much-needed services to Southern West Virginia .
“ This will be a one-stop shop where patients can arrive and use valet parking for convenience . The patients will go into the south entrance of the main campus and see their provider , obtain lab work and receive treatments designed to ensure the patients receive the care they deserve ,” says Bowling .
This project hits home for Bowling in more ways than one , as she grew up in Southern West Virginia and lost her biggest influence in life to this horrible disease .
“ My father died of cancer many years ago and knowing that I am making a difference by leading efforts to improve care in this region has significant meaning for me .”
The groundbreaking for the center will be in the late spring or early summer of 2025 . It ’ s projected opening date is the end of 2027 .
care system that cares about the people in the state .
“ As a CEO , I oversee the operations of a community hospital and provide support to the staff to ensure we meet our mission of delivering exceptional health care services ,” she says .
In that role , Bowling ’ s focus is on ensuring this organization provides quality , comprehensive health care in Southern West Virginia .
“ In the role of government affairs , my responsibility is to develop and maintain working relationships with the governor as well as cabinet , senate and house members ,” she says . “ On the national level , a close connection to the senators and congressmen who represent West Virginia is crucial . Keeping myself knowledgeable about the inner workings of the government and how best to advocate for important health care policy is a key component of my role .”
Not only is Bowling dedicated to helping the people of Southern West Virginia through her career , but she is also passionate about giving her free time and talent to the people in her community . Currently , she serves as a holiday reading and craft project volunteer at St . Francis De Sales Catholic School and member and former chairman of the West Virginia Hospital Association .
Although Bowling is proud of all she has accomplished professionally , her greatest success extends beyond her career .
“ Raising two college-educated children who have grown into loving , caring and successful adults brings me immense pride ,” she says . “ Additionally , being able to enjoy time with my two beautiful granddaughters is a pleasure beyond measure .”
Born and raised in West Virginia , Bowling has a deep-rooted love for the state and its people .
“ The community here is incredibly family-oriented and cares deeply about one another , which has always resonated with me ,” she says . “ It ’ s truly a wonderful place to raise a family , and this connection to the Mountain State has been a significant factor in my decision to stay and work here .” •
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