About Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation

Enhancing cancer prevention, treatment and supportive care statewide

Who We Are

The Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization revolutionizing cancer care in Alaska. The Foundation’s network includes Anchorage Radiation Oncology Center, Mat-Su Valley Cancer Care, Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center and Southeast Radiation Oncology Center and focuses on accessible, advanced treatment and comprehensive support for patients and families.

With a commitment to patient-centered care, AIOF emphasizes reinvestment in community health initiatives and state-of-the-art services, operating under a sustainable model that covers all residents of Alaska, regardless of their insurance status.

State-of-the-art Services

The Foundation ensures access to the latest in cancer care technology and advanced treatments through its unified network of oncology centers.

Collaborative Strategy

With a focus on improving cancer outcomes, the Foundation’s model is designed to leverage statewide resources, fostering collaboration among health care professionals and enhancing the continuum of care for Alaskans facing cancer.

Community Support

The Foundation extends its impact beyond treatment, supporting the broader cancer community through strategic giving. By investing in health initiatives and patient support programs, the Foundation reinforces a network of care that uplifts every individual affected by cancer in Alaska.

Foundation Staff

Jess Gutzwiler

Vice President of Community Engagement
and Philanthropy

Jess Gutzwiler brings a wealth of experience in cancer care and community engagement to her role at the Foundation, driving its mission throughout Alaska. Her background includes positions at the American Cancer Society and Advanced Oncology Associates, leading to her current role in cultivating community partnerships and support.

As an active member and leader within the Soldotna Rotary Club, and a contributor to the Central Peninsula Foundation Board, Jess is committed to community service and health care improvement.

Jess, originally from eastern South Dakota, now fully embraces the Alaska lifestyle, enjoying outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing and hiking. She lives in Clam Gulch with her spoiled micro-mini pig, Spank.

Dr. Eugene Huang

Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Huang is the full-time physician at Southeast Radiation Oncology.

Dr. Huang attended Baylor College of Medicine, and received his oncology training at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, the number one ranked cancer hospital in the world. He formerly practiced at the Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Huang serves as a scientific peer reviewer for several leading medical journals, including the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics, and Breast Diseases Quarterly. He has received numerous awards for outstanding scientific research in breast and prostate cancer, including: the RSNA Roentgen Fellow Research Award, the Gilbert Fletcher Research Award, and the James Alexander Symposium.

Dr. Huang has been invited to present his research at numerous international conferences for prostate, breast, and lung cancer, including the American Association for Cancer Research, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Society for Radiation Oncology, and the American Radium Society.

Alex Gonnsen

Vice President of Clinical Operations

Alex brings over 15 years of experience in radiation therapy, with the last 12 spent serving patients in some of Alaska’s most remote communities. Working in rural healthcare has given him a deep appreciation for the unique challenges of delivering high-quality care in areas where resources can be limited and every decision has real impact.

He started his journey with a degree in Radiation Therapy from Argosy University and has since built a career focused not just on clinical care, but on improving how healthcare is delivered. Whether it’s streamlining workflows, leading cross-functional teams, or finding creative solutions to operational hurdles, Alex has always been someone who steps up to lead and make things work better—for both patients and staff.

Known for his hands-on approach and calm leadership style, Alex is passionate about making healthcare more accessible and efficient, especially in underserved areas.

Steven Castle

Senior Vice President of Operations

Steven Castle contributes as Senior Vice President of Operations. Beginning his oncology service caring for patients as a Radiation Therapist, he continued his professional career as a university professor/Program Director for Radiation Therapy. Transition to hospital operations, Steven then served as an Oncology Service Line executive, hospital COO, as well as global oncology role within the oncology medical device industry. He balances his professional career serving as a US Navy reserve officer.

Steven is a graduate of Radiation Therapy from the University of Rochester and an undergraduate degree from Roberts Wesleyan College. Later completing graduate education at Cornell University, Regis University, and US Navy War College. He is a fellow with the Association Cancer Executives and a Certified Cancer Executive (COE). His DNA is to work with teams to build both services and cultures that creates great and compassionate care for patients and their families.