Stanford Cardiothoracic Surgery Celebrates Women in Medicine Month with Inspirational Event
by Lynn Nichols
October 6, 2023
Breaking into cardiothoracic surgery as a woman can be challenging. The field has traditionally been dominated by men, with women making up only 10.6% of cardiothoracic surgeons in the United States, according to a 2023 study by the Stanford Medicine Cardiothoracic Surgery Department.
A group of women cardiothoracic surgeons at Stanford took action to nudge this statistic upward during an event in honor of the American Medical Association’s Women in Medicine Month. They shared a video to inspire women interested in cardiothoracic surgery during a celebratory luncheon to mark the day.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Chair Dr. Joseph Woo kicked off the event by sharing his gratitude for the contributions of women in the department. Dr. Leah Backhus, Professor, gave a heartwarming keynote speech about her experience as a Black woman cardiothoracic surgeon. Along with delicious food, attendees enjoyed lively conversations and the inspirational video.
The video introduces viewers to six of our 23 women faculty members, residents, and fellows. The group shares their insights and wisdom on having a career in cardiothoracic surgery. They discuss what motivates them in their work, ways they overcome challenges, and offers encouragement for women entering the field. Here are a few of their pieces of wisdom:
● “You get to be part of a very small group of people who have a highly specialized skill to help people in their most dire moments.” - Dr. Jennifer Kim
● “Especially for women, if you have a family it can be challenging, but know that you do have a network of similar people, a.k.a. female leaders in your field, to support you.” - Dr. Yuanjia Zhu
The event adopted the Women in Medicine’s theme of “moving forward together.” It took place on Wed., Sept. 27 on the Stanford University campus, and was well attended. The event was organized by the department’s DEI and Wellness Staff Committee, which promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, well-being, and wellness.
Event Photos
