Educational and Professional Background

Dr. Rachna Shroff laid the foundation of her medical career at Brown University, where she completed her undergraduate studies. She subsequently earned her medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University. Following her education, Dr. Shroff enhanced her expertise through a fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2010. She served as an associate professor in gastrointestinal (GI) medical oncology at the center until 2018, when she joined the University of Arizona (UA).

Personal Life and Support System

Dr. Shroff was married to Dr. Puneet Shroff, who is a clinical professor of medicine at the UA’s College of Medicine — Tucson and the associate director of the Allergy Clinic at Banner Medical Group. As the couple approached their 20th wedding anniversary, Dr. Shroff expressed profound gratitude for her husband’s supportive role in her life, stating, “Puneet has been the reason I’ve marched forward. And his ability to understand my vantage point, and his ability … to just stand by my side.”

The couple shared two children, a daughter named Simran, aged 17, and a son named Sachin, aged 13. Dr. Shroff emphasized that her family’s well-being was her primary concern, revealing their importance in her life.

Reflections on Resilience

Speaking candidly about the challenges faced by their family, Dr. Puneet Shroff remarked, “To have no cares, so to speak, in the world, and then all of them at your feet all at once, that’s both overwhelming. But it also teaches you resilience, and I hope that teaches our children resilience. I hope, for Rachna’s sake, it gives her strength, courage.” Their children fondly recalled Dr. Shroff’s tenacity and loving spirit as the most enduring aspects of her character.

Establishing a Lasting Impact

Dr. Rachna Shroff was dedicated to advancing cancer research. One of her final aspirations was the establishment of the “Conquer Cancer — Rachna Shroff, MD, MS, FASCO Endowed Young Investigator Award in Biliary Cancers.” Within weeks, she achieved this goal, successfully raising over $1.35 million to support the next generation of cancer innovators.

Contributions to Cancer Research and Education

During her tenure at the University of Arizona, Dr. Shroff held the title of the inaugural John F. and Valli S. Duval Endowed Professor for Gastrointestinal Oncology. Additionally, she served as the associate dean for clinical and translational research at the College of Medicine — Tucson. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Shroff authored more than 80 publications and participated as a speaker in over 130 professional engagements, showcasing her commitment to the field of oncology.