Margaret Barton-Burke, the Mary Ann Lee Endowed Professor of Oncology Nursing at UMSL, has been elected president-elect of the Oncology Nursing Society. (Photo by August Jennewein)

The Oncology Nursing Society has named Margaret Barton-Burke, the Mary Ann Lee Endowed Professor of Oncology Nursing at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, president-elect of the organization.

She’ll begin her term on April 27, and serve for one year. In 2014, she’ll serve a two-year term as the society’s president.

Barton-Burke has been a member of the society for 30 years, serving in several capacities, including on the board of directors.

The Oncology Nursing Society is comprised of more than 35,000 registered nurses and other health-care providers dedicated to excellence in patient care, education, research and administration in oncology nursing. Since its official incorporation in 1975, the society has become a leader in cancer care. It has grown to include 231 chapters and 27 special interest groups. The organization’s mission is to promote excellence in oncology nursing and quality cancer care.

Barton-Burke has been a pioneer in breast cancer research, especially among black women. She joined the UMSL faculty in 2008. In October 2012, she was inducted as a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing.