Wirthlin named Huntsman Cancer Foundation president and COO

Kim Wirthlin has been named president and chief operating officer of the Huntsman Cancer Foundation (HCF). Her appointment to succeed the retiring Susan Sheehan was announced by Peter Huntsman, foundation chairman and CEO.

“We are delighted to welcome Kim to the helm of HCF,” said Huntsman. “Her expertise and vision will support the incredible mission our family began investing in decades ago. I have personally become acquainted with Kim during the search process and discussed her qualifications with leaders in the community. Her previous experiences, stellar reputation and track record make her the perfect candidate for this position.”

HCF is the charitable organization supporting Hunstsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah. The foundation has seen the support of more than 1 million donors and is responsible for the growth seen at Huntsman Cancer Institute’s cancer campus and programs, the foundation said in announcing the change. Wirthlin began her new role on Feb. 1.

“In this role, she will build upon a strong legacy of excellence,” a HCF release said. “Wirthlin joins a highly qualified team of leaders in philanthropy. The team’s vision is to work hand in hand with Huntsman Cancer Institute to realize a cancer-free future by eradicating the disease altogether. Thanks in part to generous donor support, Huntsman Cancer Institute has undergone remarkable growth and has had a dramatic, positive impact on the burden of cancer.”

Wirthlin will be a fiduciary and officer of the foundation, Huntsman said. She also will serve as a key voice in defining the aspirations and future of Huntsman Cancer Institute and a voice for leaders in state and federal public policies that impact cancer.

During her previous 16 years of employment at the University of Utah, Wirthlin has worked as the vice president of government relations and as the chief marketing and communications officer for the university’s healthcare system and Health Sciences. She also served as the chief policy officer and head of business development.

“The work of HCF captures my energy, passion and commitment, and it’s what drew me to this opportunity. The foundation is all about impact,” Wirthlin said. “It’s a unique university, community, statewide and national asset that is instrumental in advancing the boldest vision laid out by its founder, Jon M. Huntsman, to eradicate cancer. I am thrilled to join the strong team at HCF along with the HCF board of directors to advance the vital and lifesaving work of conquering cancer.”