Kara Leigh Roncin, MD, is a highly regarded pathologist whose dedication to medicine and education has shaped a career of excellence and impact. As a pathologist with CHI Health and a clinical instructor at Creighton University School of Medicine, Dr. Roncin combines her expertise in pathology with a commitment to reintegrating it into patient care. Her work extends to CommonSpirit Health, where she brings a patient-centered focus to the intricate and often behind-the-scenes world of pathology. Her journey reflects her lifelong determination to make meaningful contributions to medicine.
Dr. Roncin’s academic foundation began with a Bachelor of Science in cell biology and anatomy from the University of Saskatchewan. She then earned her Doctor of Medicine from the Medical University of the Americas, achievements that fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a doctor. These degrees provided the technical knowledge and skills that have propelled her career, enabling her to pursue specialized training in anatomic and clinical pathology. Her dedication to excellence has been evident throughout her medical education, residency, and fellowship, where she developed a focus on surgical pathology, particularly breast pathology.
Dr. Roncin’s path has been one of perseverance, a quality she attributes to the influence of her parents. Her father, an industrial mechanic, and her mother, a folk artist, instilled in her the values of resilience, hard work, and dedication. These principles guided her through the challenges of medical training and into a successful career. She often reflects on their encouragement as she navigates the complexities of her profession and continues to push the boundaries of her expertise. Her professional career began with a residency at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center under Case Western Reserve University, where she honed her skills in pathology and cultivated a passion for quality assurance and improvement. She later completed a clinical fellowship in surgical pathology with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, further refining her focus on breast pathology. These formative experiences shaped her approach to patient care, inspiring her to seek ways to bring pathology closer to the bedside and directly improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Roncin’s work extends beyond her roles at CHI Health and CommonSpirit Health. She is actively involved in professional organizations, including the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, College of American Pathologists, and the International Society of Breast Pathologists. Her memberships reflect her commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in pathology and fostering collaboration within the medical community. Additionally, she has received accolades for her contributions, including being named Top Pathologist by Best in Nebraska Magazine in recognition of her expertise and dedication.
Beyond her clinical and academic roles, Dr. Roncin takes pride in her leadership and civic involvement. She chairs committees such as the Network Cancer Committee and Breast Advisory Committee within CommonSpirit Health, where she provides strategic direction and oversight. Her volunteer efforts include supporting organizations like the Greystone Scholar Society, the Cystic Fibrosis Society, and the American Medical Student Association. She is also an active blood donor for both the American Red Cross and Canada Red Cross, embodying her commitment to service. Dr. Roncin’s passion for teaching is evident in her work as a clinical instructor, where she mentors medical students and fosters the next generation of health care professionals. She views education as a vital part of her career, consistently seeking opportunities for training and learning. Her enthusiasm for teaching and patient-centered care aligns with her broader mission to make pathology an integral part of the patient experience.
Balancing her professional achievements with her personal life, Dr. Roncin finds joy in spending time with her daughter and engaging in hobbies like board games, particularly Tainted Grail: Awaken Rails. She values continuous learning and is considering pursuing additional education through an MBA or a master’s in education to further her impact in medicine and teaching. She is also preparing for her second board exam while expanding her presence on platforms like YouTube, where she shares insights and engages with a broader audience.
Born in Saskatoon, Dr. Roncin’s roots continue to influence her approach to life and work. Her drive to overcome challenges and her dedication to helping others reflect the lessons she learned growing up in a supportive and hardworking family. These values have guided her through a career that combines technical precision with compassion, making her a respected leader in pathology. Her journey exemplifies the power of resilience and the importance of passion in achieving success. Her unwavering dedication to advancing the field of pathology, reintegrating it into patient care, and inspiring future medical professionals highlights her profound impact on health care. Through her work, teaching, and civic engagement, she continues to make a difference in the lives of patients, students, and the broader medical community.