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Covenant Health Strengthens Cancer Care Leadership with Two Esteemed Physician Executives

  • 3 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 1/29/2026

Covenant Health announces the appointment of two nationally recognized oncology leaders to its Cancer Care team: Dr. David Penberthy as executive medical director of the oncology service line, and Dr. Susan Newman as medical director of medical oncology and breast cancer program. These strategic additions reflect Covenant Health’s commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centered cancer care across East Tennessee.

Leadership That Makes a Difference

“At Covenant Health, we’re investing in the future of cancer care,” said Jon-David Deeson, executive vice president of physician enterprise and ambulatory services. “Dr. Penberthy and Dr. Newman bring a powerful combination of clinical expertise, visionary leadership, and a shared passion for excellence. Their arrival signals a bold step forward in our vision to be the first and best choice for our patients fighting cancer.”

“These appointments reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation in cancer care,” said Jim VanderSteeg, Chief Executive Officer of Covenant Health. “Dr. Penberthy and Dr. Newman are not only exceptional clinicians—they are leaders who will help shape the future of oncology in our region.”

About Our New Medical Directors

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David Penberthy, MD

Dr. David Penberthy is a board-certified radiation oncologist and former US Navy Flight Surgeon. He is a nationally respected expert in radiation therapy and oncology innovation, having served in leadership roles across his career and most recently as President of the Association of Cancer Care Centers. Dr. Penberthy brings national experience in innovation and emerging trends in cancer care. He will maintain a clinical practice two days per week at the Covenant Health Proton Center.

Dr. Penberthy expressed his excitement about joining Covenant Health, stating, “I’m thrilled to join Covenant Health at such an exciting time. The opportunities before us are incredible, and the future is going to be better than we can imagine. I can’t wait to get started!”

Dr. Susan Newman is a board-certified medical oncologist focused on breast cancer, with extensive experience in clinical care, research, and program development. She will guide the continued growth of Covenant Health’s medical oncology and breast cancer services. Having served patients in East Tennessee for over 20 years, Dr. Newman brings a deep familiarity with and passion for the greater Knoxville cancer community. She will maintain a clinical practice two days per week at the Downtown Knoxville location.

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Susan Newman, MD

Commenting on her decision to join Covenant, Dr. Newman said, “I have dedicated my professional career to caring for cancer patients throughout East Tennessee. Joining the Covenant Health team to help accomplish their vision of improving, broadening and expanding the most advanced oncology care in Knoxville, East and Middle Tennessee, allows me an unprecedented ability to continue to touch lives and make a meaningful difference in a cancer patient’s care and overall outcome. I am honored to have been chosen to be part of such a truly worthwhile endeavor.”

Covenant Health’s Commitment

These appointments underscore Covenant Health’s position as the region’s largest, most comprehensive health system—delivering advanced technology, expert care, and a seamless patient experience.

About Covenant Health

Covenant Health is a nationally recognized leader in comprehensive cancer care, offering advanced treatment options and compassionate support for patients and families across East Tennessee. As the region’s only provider of proton therapy, Covenant Health Proton Center delivers highly targeted radiation treatment that minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue—especially critical for pediatric and complex cancer cases.

With a multidisciplinary team of specialists, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to research and innovation, Covenant Health’s cancer care team provides personalized care plans that reflect the latest in evidence-based medicine.

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