Celebrating Women in Medicine

September is the American Medical Association’s Women in Medicine Month, a time to recognize the barrier-breaking female physicians, residents, faculty, staff and students of the past and present that are paving the way for the growing number of women in the profession. 
 
This month-long spotlight is part of a national effort to emphasize the unique challenges that women face to achieve full inclusion and equity. Women in medicine and science often face personal, professional and cultural bias when pursuing, achieving and advancing their careers.  
 
At the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Buffalo, we have numerous women leaders, educators, researchers, and clinicians whose significant contributions have positively impacted our university, community and beyond. I know there is even more to come from these courageous individuals who have forged ahead despite the obstacles they have faced in today’s world.   
 
We need to celebrate these women and their many accomplishments. We must also support the next generation of women leaders in medicine and sciences by establishing a foundation to provide them opportunities to succeed. 
 
Research demonstrates that advocacy, mentoring, networking, development of leadership skills and general support improves recruitment, retention, advancement and career satisfaction. These are just a few of the things necessary to succeed as a woman in health care and to rise to a leadership position in a professional field where women have long been underrepresented. 
 
The growth of women leaders in medicine is critical to closing the gender gap. The Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo is committed to promoting a culture of inclusivity, tolerance and belonging, and honoring our wonderful women.

Please join me in celebrating our women in medicine. We are grateful for their outstanding contributions and achievements in our profession.