Published: November 5, 2026
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Norton Cancer Institute has named Joshua D. Harman, D.O., inaugural Steven Vanover Foundation Endowed Chair. Dr. Harman’s arrival in Louisville signifies a major investment advancing sarcoma treatment and research in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
Made possible through a $1 million commitment from the Steven Vanover Foundation through the Norton Healthcare Foundation and community support of $500,000 matched by the Norton Healthcare Foundation, the $1.5 million endowed chair positions 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.
“By creating this endowed chair and Dr. Harman adding expertise in this field, we are making it easier for patients to get complete, team-based care for complex bone and soft-tissue cancers,” said Joseph M. Flynn, D.O., MPH, FACP, physician-in-chief, Norton Cancer Institute. “I am grateful to the Vanover family and the donors of the Norton Healthcare Foundation for making this possible. It truly is transforming care for patients in need and leaving a legacy in Steven’s memory.”
Dr. Harman is an orthopedic oncology surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and surgical treatment for benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors in adult and pediatric patients. He completed his fellowship training in orthopedic oncology at the University of Florida, Gainesville, where he developed focused expertise in limb-sparing procedures, sarcoma care and complex oncologic reconstruction.
His clinical interests include limb salvage surgery, metastatic cancer care, complex joint reconstruction and revision, and multidisciplinary management of musculoskeletal tumors.
Dr. Harman will work 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 and 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 Vanover’s courage and optimism throughout his cancer journey, the Steven Vanover Foundation was established to support sarcoma research and improve treatment options for patients.
“The Steven Vanover Foundation is thrilled to establish the Steven Vanover Foundation Endowed Chair at Norton Healthcare. Norton is committed to advancing care close to home which aligns with our mission, and we’re proud to invest in that work,” said Shivang Patel, president, Steven Vanover Foundation. “Dr. Harman brings deep expertise and a genuine dedication to his patients, and this chair will help expand access to specialized care for people battling sarcoma and other rare cancers. Steven received his treatment here, and supporting the next generation of patients at Norton is one of the most meaningful ways we can honor his memory.”
Founded in March 2015, the Steven Vanover Foundation works to fund healthcare initiatives, support patient needs and continue its namesake’s legacy. In total, it has committed more than $1.3 million to Norton Cancer Institute through the Norton Healthcare Foundation.