Vivian J. Bea

Vivian J. Bea, MD is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and serves as Section Chief of Breast Surgical Oncology and Director of the Breast Program at New York Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. A board-certified breast surgical oncologist, she specializes in treating breast cancer while addressing systemic health disparities affecting minority populations, particularly Black women.

Education

• Master of Science in Biology, Drexel University
• Doctor of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine
• General Surgery Residency, Medical University of South Carolina (2016)
• Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship, MD Anderson Cancer Center (2017)

Research Interests

Dr. Bea's research centers on racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes, focusing on barriers to care for Black women. She develops community-based interventions to improve early detection, treatment access, and patient navigation systems. Her work integrates surgical oncology with public health strategies to address socioeconomic and cultural factors influencing cancer outcomes.

Scientific Awards

• ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation Award for oncology research
• Arnold P. Gold Humanism and Excellence in Teaching Award for patient-centered care

Advising and Community Leadership

Dr. Bea mentors medical students and residents while leading transformative community initiatives. She founded GLOSS (Girls Loving OurSelves Successfully) to empower underrepresented middle school girls through STEM education and self-esteem building. Her "Sister, Give Me Your Hand" program provides culturally competent breast cancer support for Black women, and "B-Mentoring" addresses representation gaps for minority women in medicine.

Clinical and Program Leadership

As Section Chief and Breast Program Director, she oversees a multidisciplinary team implementing evidence-based surgical protocols and innovative community outreach. Her leadership integrates clinical excellence with health equity frameworks to transform breast cancer care delivery in underserved communities.