Meet Shuhan Yang 

Program Manager, Institute for Data Science in Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center

• ’19 Communication, Media, and Technology MS; RIT Graduate Scholarship recipient 2017 and 2018
• ’23 Project Management Professional, Project Management Institute
• ’24 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Post-graduate Program, The University of Texas at Austin

RIT"s School of Communications grads launch inspiring, impactful careers. Here Graduate Class of 2019 grad Shuhan Yang offers a glimpse of what her RIT experience was like and how it prepared her for her career. 

What Are You Doing Now? 

At the nation’s leading cancer center, we have a profound understanding of the most urgent needs of patients with cancer, and we are committed to improving their lives. The Institute for Data Science in Oncology (IDSO) at MD Anderson integrates the tremendous power of data science with the institution’s unparalleled scientific and clinical expertise to transform research and care to impact patients in ways only possible here. 

As the inaugural Program Manager, I helped build the institute from the ground up—from early conceptual design to a successful official launch. I lead strategy and operations across IDSO’s initiatives and strengthen partnerships that advance our scientific and organizational goals. Acting as the key liaison to leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders, I ensure cross-functional coordination and measurable progress.
 

Learning by Doing at RIT:

While I was attending RIT, I was supported by my CMT program—based on my advisor Jonathan Schroeder’s recommendation—to attend the “Creating Our Future” Eastern Communication Association 110th Annual Convention. This experience exposed me to emerging scholarship, connected me with practitioners and researchers across the field, and strengthened my ability to translate academic knowledge into real-world professional applications.

The opportunity to present, network, and engage in scholarly dialogue broadened my perspective and better prepared me for the collaborative, analytical, and communication-driven aspects of my profession.

Flexible, Customizable Program:

I was able to take courses at both School of Communication and Saunders College of Business, where I built a strong foundation in marketing, analytics, entrepreneurship, and strategic thinking. My work now requires navigating complex organizational structures, leading cross-functional initiatives, and communicating clearly across scientific, administrative, and executive teams—all of which draw directly from my communication training.

The marketing and analytics skills I gained at Saunders help me shape strategy, interpret data, and drive initiatives with both clarity and purpose. In many ways, my education at RIT uniquely prepared me for this role by blending communication, business thinking, and human-centered leadership—foundations I rely on every day as I help build and advance large-scale institutional initiatives at MD Anderson.

Faculty Mentors:

What stayed with me the most was not just the coursework—it was the people. I was fortunate to meet mentors who profoundly shaped my academic journey and personal growth, until now, we are still in touch. 

Eun Sook Kwon, who has a great heart and supported me with genuine care. She listened, encouraged, and believed in me at moments when I needed it most. Highland Park was alive with blooming flowers when we went there together, a memory painted in color. Duygu Akdevelioglu, she supported my PhD applications and academic endeavors with thoughtful guidance. Her belief in my abilities pushed me to aim higher, trust my voice, and pursue opportunities I might not have considered on my own. Bob Barbato, I was always sitting in the first row of his classroom. He taught core business principles with clarity and passion, but he also taught something far more meaningful—how to approach life with curiosity, integrity, and kindness.

Over time, they became not just influential teachers, but lifelong friends whose guidance continues to shape the way I think, work, and lead.

Prepared for Workplace and World of Tomorrow:

I’ve learned that what truly makes a difference is the ability to learn, adapt, and evolve. Looking back at my career trajectory, there has never been a standard or linear route for me to follow. Instead, I’ve built my expertise through continuous learning—earning my PMP certification, expanding my knowledge in artificial intelligence, and developing strong operational management skills.

Perks of a Liberal Arts Foundation:

Through every step, the key has been to listen, stay humble, and recognize both my limitations and my potential. I’ve learned not to give up, even when the path feels uncertain. During times of challenge and turbulence, remaining positive and perseverant has been essential. These experiences have shaped not just my skillset, but also the way I lead, collaborate, and navigate complex environments with resilience and purpose.