Brian Persing, M.D., is director of the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) and an associate professor of interdisciplinary clinical oncology at USA Health. A nationally recognized medical oncologist and hematologist, Persing provides patient-centered cancer care while leading the institute’s clinical, research and strategic initiatives.
Persing previously served at MCI from 2020 to 2024 and returned in 2026 to lead the region’s premier academic cancer center. He is triple board-certified in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology, with a clinical focus on lung cancer. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine and completed his internship, residency and fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
At the national level, Persing is a respected leader in oncology and health policy. In 2025, he was inducted as a Fellow of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (FASCO). He has held numerous leadership roles within ASCO, including chair of the State Affiliate Council, association board member and treasurer, and advocacy representative. In this capacity, he has provided expert testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and Health and Human Services, helping advance policies that expand access to high-quality cancer care and clinical trials.
In addition to his national leadership, Persing has played a key role in advancing oncology care and education across the Gulf Coast and Mississippi. He previously served as division chair of hematology and oncology at MCI and interim program director for the medical oncology fellowship program at the University of South Alabama Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. He has also held academic appointments at William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Whiddon College of Medicine.
Persing is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Physicians, American Society of Hematology, International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, American Medical Association and Mississippi State Medical Association. His research and publications focus on improving cancer care delivery, outcomes and patient access to innovative therapies.
Committed to improving outcomes for patients across the Gulf Coast, Persing remains actively involved in patient care, ensuring a strong connection between clinical practice and the institute’s mission to deliver compassionate, cutting-edge cancer treatment close to home.
Brian Persing, M.D., will return to the Mitchell Cancer Institute, where he served from 2020 to 2024, to oversee clinical, research, and strategic initiatives while also caring for patients.
“Win anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 on every hole or another great prize. In fact, we had a $15,000 winner last year. So, put a team together and come out to Magnolia Grove to support a great cause.”
Lung cancer claims as many lives each year as breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. However, diagnosing lung cancer in the early stages increases the survival rate to more than 61%.
