Norton Children’s has named a new physician to lead its cancer institute.

Michael J. Ferguson, M.D., will serve as chief of Norton Children’s Cancer Institute and division chief of the University of Louisville School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation. In these roles, Dr. Ferguson will lead Norton Children’s team of physicians and staff dedicated to treating pediatric cancer and blood disorders throughout the region. He also will be tasked with leading the vision for researching, developing and providing access to new treatments for pediatric cancer.

“I’m honored and humbled to lead the hematology/oncology team at Norton Children’s and the UofL Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation,” Dr. Ferguson said. “This talented staff helped transform Norton Children’s into a shining beacon of hope for so many patients battling blood disorders and cancer. There’s an incredible opportunity to grow our research, open cutting-edge clinical trials, and build more specialty clinics to meet the needs of the most complex patients. I’m excited and ready to help make Norton Children’s a national destination for treating blood disorders and cancer.”

Dr. Ferguson comes to Norton Children’s from Riley Children’s Health in Indianapolis, where he specialized in pediatric hematology/oncology. He also was involved in research on discovering new treatments for sarcomas, a group of cancers that begin in the bones and soft tissue.

“Michael has established himself as one of the top pediatric cancer physicians in the country, and we’re excited for him to join our team,” said Susan Strack, system vice president, pediatric services, Norton Healthcare and Norton Children’s. “Norton Children’s has a strong history of helping families fight – and beat – childhood cancer. I look forward to seeing his vision unfold as we work to conquer this disease.”

“Being a leader in childhood cancer research is a point of pride for the UofL Department of Pediatrics, and Michael’s addition division chief of hematology, oncology and stem cell transplantation will elevate that mission,” said Kimberly A. Boland, M.D., chief of staff, Norton Children’s Hospital, and endowed chair of pediatrics, UofL School of Medicine. “His groundbreaking work has greatly advanced child health. Our faculty, staff, fellows, residents and medical students are eager to benefit from his experience.”

Norton Children’s Cancer Institute serves more than 7,000 patients each year, treating all forms of pediatric cancer and blood disorders. Norton Children’s Hospital’s cancer program began more than 60 years ago and is one of the oldest oncology programs in the U.S. that has been continuously accredited by the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Ferguson began his positions Aug. 1 and will start seeing patients in September.