2024 Men of the Year: Dr. Robert L. Carolla

Retired oncologist Dr. Robert L. Carolla has left his mark on the local health care industry.

Carolla is known, in part, for establishing Oncology Hematology Associates with Dr. Ruth Grant. The medical group since 1979 has offered oncology and hematology care throughout the region.

“OHA became a pivotal force in expanding cancer care, and its affiliation with the National Cancer Institute elevated Springfield’s standing in medical research,” Carolla says, noting the organization started in response to the lack of medical oncology services in southwest Missouri. “This endeavor involved recruiting and mentoring eight oncologists, enabling the local administration of chemotherapy and ancillary cancer treatments.”

Dr. Robert J. Ellis of Oncology Hematology Associates says a highlight of Carolla’s more than 50-year medical career was being the first physician to provide modern chemotherapeutics in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.

“Oncology Hematology Associates has continued to provide state-of-the-art care to literally hundreds of thousands of people,” Ellis says. “Through Dr. Carolla’s leadership, OHA has been a leader in enrolling patients in modern clinical trials.

“He has been the primary investigator for many National Cancer Institute clinical trials which have advanced cancer care and established new standards of care both nationwide and worldwide.”

Carolla says his proudest professional accomplishment was helping to establish Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks Inc. and serving as its first medical director. The organization advocates for the benefits of hospice care and provides grants to support end-of-life services in the Ozarks.

“The foundation’s role in the community can’t be overstated, and its evolution reflects a commitment to tackling the challenges of providing compassionate end-of-life care,” Carolla says.

“By providing knowledge and room for conversation in collaborative and inclusive environments, we hope to spur lasting, systemic improvement in hospice services that benefit adults, particularly the elderly, throughout Springfield and southwest Missouri.”

Carolla’s community work includes roles on the board and executive and advisory committees of Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks, but his civic accomplishments don’t stop there.

He has been active in Sculpture Walk Springfield, which was created by the Carolla and Schneider families. Carolla has been vice president of the board for Ozarks Lyric Opera and vestry and foundation president for Christ Episcopal Church. Additionally, his civic involvement has extended to Missouri State University, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Rotary Club of Springfield.

“Volunteerism and civic leadership have been integral to my commitment to Springfield’s growth,” says Carolla. “Through volunteerism, I’ve been exposed to a culture of enthusiasm for the community that amazes me.

“For those retired or approaching retirement, I encourage joining the volunteer community; the rewards are beyond measure.”