Published: September 3, 2026
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Norton Cancer Institute continues to expand access to specialized cancer care with the establishment of the Steven Vanover Foundation Endowed Chair, a major investment in supporting the advancement of sarcoma treatment and research in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
Made possible through a more than $1 million commitment from the Steven Vanover Foundation and a $500,000 match through the Norton Healthcare Foundation, the endowed chair position reflects a shared commitment to improving outcomes for patients facing rare and complex cancers, including desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT), a rare and aggressive form of sarcoma.
Joshua D. Harman, D.O., serves as the inaugural Norton Cancer Institute Steven Vanover Foundation Endowed Chair. He completed his fellowship training in orthopedic oncology at the University of Florida, Gainesville, where he developed focused expertise in limb-sparing procedures and sarcoma care. The program is recognized for its training in biologic and endoprosthetic reconstruction.
Since joining Norton Cancer Institute in October 2025, Dr. Harman has been building a dedicated sarcoma program. He has launched a weekly multidisciplinary tumor board, developed the infrastructure to contribute to national databases, strengthened coordinated care pathways and expanded access to evidence-based treatment for patients throughout the region.
“Sarcoma demands highly specialized, multidisciplinary care; and too often that means patients must travel far to receive it. Our goal is to bring that same standard of care closer to home,” Dr. Harman said. “This extraordinary gift from the Steven Vanover Foundation and the Norton Healthcare Foundation strengthens access to exactly that for patients facing these rare diagnoses.”
Dr. Harman works closely with multidisciplinary teams across Norton Cancer Institute to ensure orthopedic oncology care is fully integrated into the patient’s treatment plan. His approach emphasizes shared decision-making, preservation of function and quality of life, while supporting patients and families through every stage of care.
The endowed chair honors the legacy of Steven Daniel Vanover, a Norton Cancer Institute patient diagnosed at age 23 with DSRCT. Inspired by Steven’s courage and optimism throughout his cancer journey, the Steven Vanover Foundation was established to support sarcoma research and improve treatment options for future patients.
“This endowed chair represents an important step forward for cancer care in our region,” said Joseph M. Flynn, D.O., MPH, FACP, physician-in-chief, Norton Cancer Institute. “As we continue building specialized expertise and advancing research capabilities, we are strengthening our ability to care for patients with rare and complex cancers closer to home.”
Referring providers now have a local destination for comprehensive sarcoma care. Patients who need evaluation or treatment of musculoskeletal tumors, complex oncologic reconstruction, metastatic bone disease or limb salvage procedures can be referred directly to Norton Cancer Institute with coordinated care from the first visit.
To learn how you can get involved with the Norton Healthcare Foundation, visit NortonHealthcare.com/WaysToHelp.