By: Kym Whitney

Newport Beach Living is honored to spotlight eight exceptional oncologists from Keck Medicine of USC, who not only exemplify leadership in the field of oncology but are also proud local residents. These dedicated professionals bring world-class expertise and a personal connection to the community they serve, offering innovative treatments, compassionate care and renewed hope to their neighbors. At Keck’s Newport Beach location, patients receive cutting-edge care close to home, ensuring less time spent traveling and more moments cherished with loved ones.

As part of the Keck Medicine of USC health system, the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center stands as a global leader in the fight against cancer. This esteemed institution sets the standard for groundbreaking research, advancing programs to prevent, control and cure the disease. Patients benefit from a culturally responsive team of multidisciplinary specialists, many of whom are bilingual, and gain access to on-site clinical research opportunities designed to enhance care and quality of life.

Dr. Minh Nguyen

Born in Vietnam and raised in Michigan, Dr. Minh Nguyen's journey to becoming a Clinical Professor of Medicine at USC Keck Medicine reflects a life dedicated to family, faith and the pursuit of excellence in oncology care. Dr. Nguyen graduated from Flat Rock High School in Michigan, earned a biology degree from the University of Michigan and completed his medical training at Wayne State University in Detroit.

Dr. Nguyen met his wife, Rachael, during high school in their small Michigan town. What began as a friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership during their senior year. Together, they share three children: Aiden (23), Averi (20), and Addison (18), all of whom were born in Michigan.

After completing his medical training, Dr. Nguyen moved to Southern California to join his sisters and extended family. This relocation allowed his children to grow up surrounded by cousins and close-knit family connections. In 2006, he joined Dr. Vandermolen’s oncology practice, eventually transitioning to USC Keck Medicine when the practice was acquired. Today, Dr. Nguyen is not only a medical oncologist specializing in benign blood disorders and malignant cancers, but also serves as the Director of Clinical Operations for the Orange County group.

Dr. Nguyen values the relationships he builds with his patients and colleagues. "I enjoy learning about my patients beyond their medical conditions, discovering their hobbies, interests and families," he says. He is equally grateful for the supportive staff at Keck, whose dedication ensures seamless day-to-day operations.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Nguyen’s strong faith provides guidance and solace in his work. "My faith gives me hope and inspiration," he shares. "I see myself as a tool for my God, offering healing, peace and comfort to my patients."

Dr. Nguyen’s hobbies include exploring Central Coast wineries with Rachael, tinkering with cars—his favorites include Mustang Shelbys and Porsches—and attending Cars and Coffee events. A diehard Detroit Lions fan, he finally has reasons to celebrate his team’s success after decades of loyal support.

On weekends, Dr. Nguyen enjoys quiet moments at Newport Pier with a cup of Blue Bottle Coffee, reflecting on the week while watching surfers greet the sunrise. He and Rachael savor local favorites like Balboa Bay Club’s A&O restaurant, Side Door in Corona del Mar and Cappy’s for breakfast. For a tropical vibe, they love happy hour at Cabo Cantina near Balboa Pier, while Chicken Coop is a go-to spot for their broasted chicken

Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of proactive health care: "Early detection is key to staying healthy and happy. I encourage everyone to prioritize screenings like colonoscopies, mammograms and regular checkups."

With deep ties to both his family and community, Dr. Nguyen takes pride in helping bring world-class cancer care to Orange County. "USC Keck Medicine has established an incredible cancer center right in our backyard," he says. "It’s a privilege to provide cutting-edge, university-level research and treatments without the long trip to Los Angeles."

Dr. Louis VanderMolen

Dr. Louis VanderMolen’s journey in medicine began on a farm in Eastvale, California, where he was born and raised. After graduating from Norco High School, he pursued higher education at UC Riverside and Loyola Medical School. His medical training continued with an internship and residency at Baylor Medical School, followed by advanced research at the National Institutes of Health.

Today, Dr. VanderMolen is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at USC Keck Medicine, where he has dedicated his career to utilizing cutting-edge treatments to care for patients. His work combines innovation with compassion, ensuring that each patient receives the highest level of care. "It’s incredibly rewarding to use advanced therapies to improve lives," he shares.

Dr. VanderMolen balances an impressive professional career with a fulfilling family life. His wife, Sally, is a former special education teacher who later worked with AstraZeneca. Dr. VanderMolen has three children. A lifelong Californian, he deeply values the beauty and opportunities of Newport Beach, often enjoying Duffy boat rides in the harbor. Beyond his work and family, he finds relaxation and renewal through his hobbies, which include flying aircraft and golfing—pursuits that highlight his precision and focus while offering a welcome balance to his demanding career.

Dr. VanderMolen’s dedication to patient care and his passion for innovation continue to make him a respected member of the Newport Beach medical community. His message to the community is simple yet profound: through advanced medical care and a personal touch, lives can be profoundly impacted.

With deep roots in California and a commitment to excellence, Dr. VanderMolen exemplifies the values that drive USC Keck Medicine’s mission to deliver world-class healthcare.

Dr. Greg Angstreich

Born and raised in Long Island, New York, Dr. Greg Angstreich's journey in medicine has taken him from Syosset High School to the sunny shores of Newport Beach. A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, where he majored in Biology and minored in Law, Liberty, and Justice, Dr. Angstreich also earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine.

In 2011, Dr. Angstreich relocated to California to join Dr. Vandermolen and Dr. Minh Nguyen’s practice. Three years later, the group became part of Keck Medicine of USC, where he now serves as a Clinical Professor of Medicine. Specializing in adult cancer and blood disorders, Dr. Angstreich finds great fulfillment in building relationships with his patients and their families. "The advances in cancer care are remarkable, but it’s the connections I make with people that truly drive me," he shares.

Dr. Angstreich’s dedication extends beyond the clinic. "I won’t rest until the best treatment is found," he emphasizes. He balances his demanding work with hobbies that keep him grounded and fulfilled, including tennis, chess, skiing, swimming and volunteering for local organizations. "Engaging in cultural activities, sports, and travel makes me a more rounded person—and a better physician," he says.

Having lived in Newport Beach since 2011, Dr. Angstreich appreciates the area’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural opportunities. He’s a regular at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, where he enjoys concerts and musicals, and he loves visiting Newport Pier for a refreshing dip in the ocean, regardless of the temperature. If he forgets to pack a lunch, he heads to A Market for a satisfying sandwich or salad.

Dr. Angstreich’s daughters, Madeline (26) and Emily (24), are a source of pride, and his move to California was driven by a desire to be closer to family. His message to the community reflects his values: "Whether it’s volunteering, playing sports, or traveling, engaging with our community enriches us all."

With a passion for delivering cutting-edge treatments and a deep commitment to his patients, Dr. Angstreich exemplifies the mission of Keck Medicine of USC to provide exceptional care with a personal touch.

Dr. An Nguyen

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, and raised in Huntington Beach, Dr. An Nguyen has dedicated his life to combining cutting-edge medicine with compassionate care. A proud alumna of Huntington Beach High School and UC Irvine, his journey to becoming a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Keck Medicine of USC has been marked by determination and a desire to give back to the community where he grew up.

Dr. Nguyen met his husband, George Csathy, during his oncology and hematology fellowship at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Married in Palm Springs in 2016, the couple has shared 23 wonderful years together.

Professionally, Dr. Nguyen spent 11 years in private practice before joining Keck Medicine in 2015. At Keck, he specializes in treating various types of cancer through chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy. His work extends beyond the clinic as he participates in clinical trials, continually seeking innovative treatments that yield better results with fewer side effects. "I enjoy being able to provide advanced cancer therapies that are more effective and have less impact on my patients' quality of life," he shares.

Dr. Nguyen's passion for health extends beyond his career. He finds balance through weightlifting, hiking, tennis and skiing, and nourishes his soul with music, meditation and travel. "I believe in the connection between the body, mind, and soul," he says. While he is fluent in Vietnamese and a lover of live music, Dr. Nguyen admits to being "terrible" at single-board sports like surfing and snowboarding.

Living in Orange County most of his life, Dr. Nguyen finds joy in delivering top-tier oncology care to his local community. His ability to connect with patients, particularly through his fluency in Vietnamese, ensures they feel supported during critical times in their lives.

When he's not working, Dr. Nguyen enjoys exploring Newport Beach's vibrant community. He loves indulging in local eateries, taking Duffy boat rides and savoring the area's unique coastal charm.

Dr. Nguyen’s message to the community is one of gratitude and hope: "I am honored to provide the most current cancer therapies here in Orange County, ensuring patients can access top-tier care close to home."

Dr. Ravi Madhure Shankar

Born and raised in Granada Hills in the San Fernando Valley, Dr. Ravi Madhure Shankar's journey to becoming a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Keck Medicine of USC has been fueled by a commitment to excellence in both academic and community-based medicine. After earning his degree in Economics while pursuing pre-med at UCLA, Dr. Shankar attended Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. He then completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Harbor UCLA Medical Center.

In 2011, Dr. Shankar married Asha, a fellow UCLA alumna with a background in Business Economics and an MBA from Anderson Business School. The couple tied the knot in a traditional Hindu ceremony at Hummingbird Nest Ranch in Simi Valley. Today, they live in Newport Beach with their three children—Zayden (9) and twins Anaya and Nilen (5)—where family life and professional fulfillment seamlessly intersect.

Dr. Shankar began his oncology career in private practice in Burbank but transitioned to Keck Medicine in 2022 after moving to Orange County to be closer to his wife’s family. "I’ve always respected academic medicine, particularly the access it provides to groundbreaking treatments and clinical trials," he shares. His role involves patient care across the Newport Beach and Irvine offices, clinical trial involvement and administrative duties.

For Dr. Shankar, the people make the work most rewarding. "Being part of a world-class medical system like Keck allows me to collaborate with incredibly talented colleagues and support staff," he says. "It inspires me to continually grow as a physician while providing the highest quality care in Orange County."

Outside of work, Dr. Shankar’s life revolves around his family. He spends his free time shuttling his children between sports practices, music lessons and other activities. The family also loves exploring the coastal cities of South Orange County, kayaking in the Back Bay, hiking near Newport and Laguna Beach, and dining at local favorites like Bear Flag Fish.

His message to the community reflects his dual commitment to knowledge and empathy: "It is an honor to care for patients in my own community. I pride myself on providing the highest quality care while offering warmth and understanding during difficult times.

Dr. Umair Ghani

Dr. Umair Ghani’s journey in medicine reflects his commitment to combining advanced treatments with personalized, compassionate care. Born in Queens, New York, and raised in Southern California, Dr. Ghani graduated from Walnut High School and pursued medical training at Shifa College of Medicine in Pakistan. After completing his Hematology/Oncology fellowship at USC, his love for the institution and its values inspired him to stay on as faculty at Keck Medicine of USC.

Now a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Dr. Ghani specializes in treating patients with blood disorders and cancer. "Each patient interaction is special," he shares. "From getting to know my patients and learning about their lives to collaborating with my team, I strive to tailor the best treatment for every individual."

Dr. Ghani’s professional satisfaction stems from both the relationships he builds and the teamwork he experiences daily. "Our entire staff—from nurses and office staff to pharmacy and administration—works efficiently and collaboratively to ensure our patients receive the highest level of care," he says.

Having lived in Southern California for more than 20 years, Dr. Ghani considers Orange County home. He loves staying active through regular workouts, running on the beach, and engaging in water sports like surfing, scuba diving and kayaking. A proud DIY enthusiast, he takes on projects with enthusiasm and determination, whether they involve tools or technology.

Dr. Ghani and his spouse, Sabah Ahmed, a Family Medicine physician, share a love for cats, calling them their "babies." He is also known for his entrepreneurial spirit; his blog for international medical students gained significant popularity and remains a testament to his ability to connect with others.

When not working, Dr. Ghani enjoys the simple pleasure of unwinding at his favorite peaceful spot off Pacific Coast Highway. Overlooking the peninsula, this quiet retreat has been his go-to destination for over 30 years.

Dr. Ghani’s local favorites reflect his love for the Newport Beach community. He appreciates its natural beauty, its vibrant coastal culture, and the sense of calm it offers. "I’m truly happy and grateful to be serving the community of Orange County," he says. "Bringing USC’s academic expertise and research to Newport Beach allows us to provide the best care for our patients."

Dr. Ghani’s dedication to his patients and passion for his community exemplify the spirit of excellence and compassion that defines Keck Medicine of USC.

Dr. Darwin Roman

Hailing from Albany, New York, and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dr. Darwin Roman has pursued an impressive path in medicine, culminating in his role as a Clinical Assistant Professor at USC Keck Medicine. After graduating from Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa, he attended the University of Oklahoma for college, medical school and residency. He further honed his expertise with a Leukemia Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and a Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at USC Norris Cancer Center and Keck Hospital in Los Angeles.

It was during his fellowship training at USC that Dr. Roman met his wife, Dr. Sherrie Yu, who is also a member of the practice. The couple recently tied the knot in October 2024 at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu. In 2022, Dr. Roman moved to Newport Coast to join the USC Keck Hematology Oncology group, where he sees patients with blood disorders and all types of cancers. He also serves on scholarship committees for both the medical school and undergraduate campuses, contributing to the academic community that shaped his career.

For Dr. Roman, the most rewarding aspect of his work is the ability to provide world-class medical care alongside a dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and staff. "I know that my patients have access to the best treatments available, provided by a care team whose number one focus is the patient experience," he says.

Outside of work, Dr. Roman enjoys an active lifestyle, often playing pickleball at Bonita Canyon Sports Park, skiing, golfing and shooting hoops. A devoted movie enthusiast, he has reviewed more than1,000 films on the website Letterboxd. A highlight of his year was attending the historic game where LeBron James broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's scoring record—a birthday gift from Sherrie that thrilled the lifelong Oklahoma City Thunder fan.

Dr. Roman’s community involvement includes attending services at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Costa Mesa, Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Newport Beach and New Life Church in Irvine. He is also a new member of the Merage Jewish Community Center, where he enjoys indoor pickleball, basketball and the workout facilities.

When it comes to dining, Dr. Roman and his wife are fans of Newport Beach’s vibrant food scene, frequenting spots like Sugarfish, Joey’s, Fable & Spirit, and Pizzeria Mozza. He also enjoys relaxing over breakfast at C’est Si Bon and dinners at Cucina Enoteca.

Dr. Roman feels privileged to serve the Newport Beach community. "It is such a privilege to get to know my patients and their families, and to be a source of support for them in difficult times," he shares. With a heart for service and a passion for his work, Dr. Roman is an integral part of USC Keck Medicine’s mission to deliver exceptional care.

Dr. Sherrie Yu

Born in China and raised in Orange County from the age of three, Dr. Sherrie Yu’s journey in medicine reflects a love for her community and a dedication to providing exceptional care. A graduate of Arnold O. Beckman High School, Dr. Yu pursued biochemistry at Rice University in Houston before attending medical school at UT Southwestern in Dallas. She completed her residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at USC, where she found her professional home.

"USC offered an incredible training environment, with world-class mentors and exposure to a diverse patient population," Dr. Yu explains. Her positive experiences during training inspired her to stay with USC Keck Medicine, where she serves as a hematology and oncology physician.

Dr. Yu enjoys the relational aspects of her role, particularly supporting her patients through their treatment journeys. "Getting to know my patients and walking with them through their care is undoubtedly the best part of my job," she shares. She also values the camaraderie and passion of her colleagues and staff.

After time away from her studies and training in Texas and Los Angeles, Dr. Yu returned to Orange County in 2021 and has embraced the opportunity to serve her hometown community. Outside of work, she stays active with yoga, volunteering in her church’s nursery, and honing her tennis skills. A self-proclaimed amateur indoor plant enthusiast, Dr. Yu also enjoys exploring Orange County’s vibrant culinary scene with her husband, Dr. Darwin Roman, whom she met during their fellowship at USC. The couple recently married in October 2024 at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu.

Dr. Yu’s favorite local spots include Fashion Island for shopping and dining, with highlights like Mendocino Farms, Sweetgreen, Red O and Sushi Roku. For a scenic escape, she enjoys walks at Inspiration Point and visits to Crystal Cove Beach. Fable and Spirit is a go-to for their "unbeatable prawns," and Arhaus is her favorite spot for browsing home furnishings.

Known for her fun quirks—such as braiding hair in under 30 seconds and always reading movie spoilers—Dr. Yu balances her professional expertise with a warm and relatable personality. Her message to the community reflects her gratitude and admiration: "It is such a joy and privilege to serve my local community. I am continually inspired by the strength, hope, and resilience of my patients."

With her dedication to both her patients and her community, Dr. Yu is a shining example of compassionate care and expertise in action.

The oncologists of Keck Medicine of USC exemplify the power of combining academic excellence with heartfelt community care. Living and working in Newport Beach, they bring a unique understanding and empathy to their practice, treating each patient like family. With Keck’s local presence, residents have access to the most advanced treatments and a dedicated team committed to providing healing and hope every step of the way.

For more information, visit: keckmedicine.org/locations/330-old-newport-blvd-newport-beach