Association of Women Surgeons

Association of Women Surgeons (AWS) is a professional organization dedicated to inspiring, encouraging, and enabling women in surgery to realize their professional and personal goals. Founded in 1981, the AWS has grown into a global network that provides mentorship, advocacy, and leadership opportunities for women surgeons at various stages of their careers. The organization's mission is to support the professional growth of women in surgery, promote diversity and inclusion within the surgical community, and address issues uniquely faced by women in the field.

History

The Association of Women Surgeons was established in 1981 by Dr. Patricia Numann, a pioneer in the field of surgery, to address the lack of representation and support for women in the surgical profession. Since its inception, AWS has played a crucial role in advocating for gender equality in surgery, providing a platform for networking, mentorship, and professional development for women surgeons.

Mission and Goals

The primary mission of the AWS is to empower women surgeons to achieve their personal and professional goals. The organization aims to:

• Promote an inclusive environment that encourages the participation of women in surgery.
• Support the advancement and leadership of women in surgery through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
• Advocate for policies and practices that ensure gender equality and address the unique challenges faced by women in the surgical field.

Programs and Initiatives

AWS offers a variety of programs and initiatives designed to support women surgeons at every stage of their career, including:

• Mentorship Programs: AWS facilitates mentorship opportunities that connect early-career surgeons with experienced mentors to guide their professional development.
• Educational Resources: The organization provides access to webinars, workshops, and conferences that focus on skill development, leadership, and career advancement.
• Research and Awards: AWS supports research on issues related to women in surgery and recognizes outstanding contributions through awards and scholarships.
• Advocacy: AWS advocates for policy changes that promote gender equality and address the barriers faced by women in the surgical profession.

Membership

Membership in the Association of Women Surgeons is open to individuals at all stages of their surgical career, from medical students to retired surgeons. AWS offers various membership categories, including active, associate, student, and international memberships, to accommodate the diverse needs of its members.

Impact

The Association of Women Surgeons has made significant contributions to the field of surgery by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through its efforts, AWS has helped increase the visibility and representation of women in surgery, fostered a supportive community, and advocated for changes that benefit all surgeons, regardless of gender.

See Also

• Women in medicine
• Surgical education
• Gender equality in medicine

External Links

• Official website of the Association of Women Surgeons