The Division of Neuro-Oncology is dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care, advancing research, and providing education across the full spectrum of nervous system tumors. 

We take a team-based approach, bringing together specialists in neuro-oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, neurosurgery, neuropsychology, physical therapy, speech pathology and social work to ensure comprehensive, personalized care for every patient. 

Our research explores the intersection of cancer biology, epidemiology, radiobiology, developmental therapeutics, clinical trials, and palliative care. Through these efforts, we aim to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life for individuals facing nervous system tumors. 

Our division is a regionally recognized neuro-oncology program providing humane and expert care in an interdisciplinary disease-based hub in the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

The chance a person will develop a malignant brain or spine tumor in their lifetime is 1%, and about 25,000 malignant brain or spinal cord tumors are diagnosed each year in the United States. These tumors can have a profound impact on a patient and their family, and specialized care with a neuro-oncologist at a comprehensive cancer center provides important resources and treatment options that can improve outcomes and help maintain quality of life. 

Our program includes providers with expertise in the field of neuro-oncology and includes dedicated radiation oncologists, tumor Surgeons, and neuropsychologists that work in concert to treat patients and support their family. We also have strong relationships with our colleagues in neurology and can provide expertise in symptom management. We provide a patient-centered approach to care that includes shared decision making in treatment. 

Our neuro-oncology faculty are deeply committed to a wide range of research initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes. Clinical trials — especially investigator-initiated studies — are a top priority, with a strong emphasis on translating discoveries from VCU laboratories to the bedside. We actively participate in industry-sponsored trials as well as National Cancer Institute (NCI) cooperative group studies through NRG Oncology, Alliance Cancer Specialists, and ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group. 

In addition, we lead research focused on cancer-related complications, including a dedicated program addressing the neuropsychological impact of brain tumors and their treatment. The LiveNOW Lab, founded by Dr. Ashlee Loughan, conducts applied research designed to directly enhance the quality of life for individuals within brain cancer communities. 

Explore a full list of current clinical trials conducted by our neuro-oncology division here. 

About the Chief

VCUSOM Message from the Chief - About the Chief

About the Chief

Mariza Daras received her medical degree from Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed her Neurology residency at Duke University Hospital, followed by a neuro-oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Prior to coming to VCU, she served as faculty at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, as well as the Division of Neuro-oncology at the University of California San Francisco where she spearheaded a CNS metastasis multidisciplinary program. 

Dr. Daras’ research interests include the development of novel therapeutics in the treatment of primary and metastatic tumors, and specifically in the immunotherapeutic and combinatorial strategies. 




Mariza Daras, M.D.

Mariza Daras, M.D.

William G. Reynolds Jr. Endowed Chair, Division of Neuro-Oncology Chief

Mariza Daras, M.D.

Mariza Daras, M.D.

William G. Reynolds Jr. Endowed Chair, Division of Neuro-Oncology Chief

Neurosurgery

Email: mariza.daras@vcuhealth.org

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 Sarah Braun, Ph.D., LCP

Sarah Braun, Ph.D., LCP

Assistant Professor

 Sarah Braun, Ph.D., LCP

Sarah Braun, Ph.D., LCP

Assistant Professor

Neurosurgery

Clinical Neuropsychologist, Division of Neuro-Oncology

Phone: (804) 828-7929

Email: Sarah.Braun@vcuhealth.org

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Mary Heustess Bridgman, M.S.

Mary Heustess Bridgman, M.S.

Clinical Research Coordinator

Mary Heustess Bridgman, M.S.

Mary Heustess Bridgman, M.S.

Clinical Research Coordinator

Neurosurgery

Division of Neuro-Oncology

Email: Mary.Bridgman@vcuhealth.org

Ashlee Loughan, Ph.D., LCP

Ashlee Loughan, Ph.D., LCP

Associate Professor

Ashlee Loughan, Ph.D., LCP

Ashlee Loughan, Ph.D., LCP

Associate Professor

Department of Neurosurgery

Neuro-Oncology

Phone: (804) 828-7929

Email: ashlee.loughan@vcuhealth.org

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Inan Olmez, M.D.

Inan Olmez, M.D.

Associate Professor

Inan Olmez, M.D.

Inan Olmez, M.D.

Associate Professor

Neurosurgery

Division of Neuro-oncology

Email: inan.olmez@vcuhealth.org

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Lauren Story, FNP

Lauren Story, FNP

Nurse Practitioner

Lauren Story, FNP

Lauren Story, FNP

Nurse Practitioner

Department of Neurosurgery

Neuro-Oncology

Phone: (804) 828-7929

Email: lauren.pintavalle@vcuhealth.org