From Nigeria to Ivy League: Dr. Lola Fayanju Makes History as New Chair of Surgery at Queen’s

In a move that is both a massive win for Queen’s University and a powerful testament to global excellence, Dr. Oluwadamilola “Lola” Fayanju has been appointed as the new Head of the Department of Surgery. Starting July 15, 2026, Dr. Fayanju will also lead the department at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) and hold the prestigious Britton Smith Chair in Surgery.

For the general public, this might sound like just another academic appointment. But make no mistake: this is a significant moment. Queen’s has recruited a superstar.

Dr. Fayanju, a distinguished Nigerian-American surgeon, isn’t just a brilliant doctor; she is a visionary leader. She arrives from the University of Pennsylvania, where she was a pioneering force—the founding chief of the Division of Breast Surgery. Her resume reads like a roadmap of excellence: Harvard, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. It’s a pedigree that promises to elevate Kingston’s surgical landscape to new heights.

But what makes this appointment truly exciting for patients and the community is her philosophy of care. Dr. Fayanju is renowned for her focus on “patient-centered outcomes.” This isn’t just about performing a perfect operation; it’s about understanding the person behind the illness. Her research dives deep into why some communities face disparities in cancer care and how to fix those barriers. She’s an oncologist who understands that a patient’s zip code and social circumstances can be just as important as their genetic code.

Her commitment to mentorship and diversity in the medical field also signals a bright future for the next generation of surgeons at Queen’s. By bringing in someone who has been celebrated by the Association of Women Surgeons for her mentorship, the university is investing in a culture that builds people up, not just a department that churns out procedures.

We should also acknowledge the incredible foundation laid by Dr. Ross Walker, who has led the department since 2020. Change can be daunting, but if Dr. Fayanju’s track record is any indication, the Department of Surgery is in for an inspiring evolution.

Welcome to Kingston, Dr. Fayanju. If your past is any predictor, you’re about to make a profound difference in the health and well-being of this community.