What is Women in Medicine Month?
Each September, the medical community honors and celebrates the contributions of women in medicine. Established by the American Medical Association (AMA), Women in Medicine Month recognizes both historic and current achievements, while also acknowledging ongoing challenges such as gender disparities, burnout, and lack of mentorship. Medicine would not be where it is today without the significant contributions of women.
Women in Medicine: Key Contributions and Achievements
Women in medicine have made groundbreaking contributions that helped shape healthcare into what it is today. Many pioneering women broke barriers and contributed to the advancement of medical knowledge and progress. Notable examples include Elizabeth Blackwell, who broke gender barriers to become the first woman to earn a U.S. medical degree. Dr. Antonia Novello also broke new ground by becoming the first female and Hispanic Surgeon General. And Dr. Katalin Kariko’s crucial pioneering work in mRNA technology revolutionized vaccine development. While these are only a small sample size, their achievements reflect both historic progress and the ongoing impact of women in shaping the future of medicine.
Excell Research Founders: Women Leading in Medicine
At Excell Research, the spirit of Women in Medicine Month is reflected in the story of our founders. Dr. Sherry Soefje, a Texas farm girl, and Dr. Jelena Kunovac, a physician from Serbia, met during their training under the world-renowned Dr. Stephen Stahl. What began as a friendship built on shared passion and determination grew into a professional partnership. Dr. Soefje, with nearly 30 years of clinical trials experience, has participated in more than 250 studies in the Central Nervous System (CNS) area, while Dr. Kunovac, with over 25 years in the field, is an internationally recognized speaker in psychopharmacology, sharing her expertise with audiences worldwide. Together, they founded Excell Research, and more than 21 years later, their vision and leadership continue to guide our work in advancing clinical research.
Women Physicians Today: Advancing Healthcare and Research
Today, women in medicine continue to shape the future of healthcare and research. From leading hospitals and clinics to conducting groundbreaking studies, women physicians and scientists contribute essential work that benefits patients and communities alike. Their leadership brings diverse perspectives, fosters innovation, and inspires the next generation of medical professionals. At Excell Research, we are proud to be women-led and to have supported the professional growth of many women who have gone on to build careers in medicine and science, a reflection of our commitment to excellence and leadership in advancing modern medicine.
Celebrating Women in Medicine Month
As we honor Women in Medicine Month, we honor the countless women whose dedication and vision continue to transform healthcare. From historic trailblazers to modern leaders and innovators, their work inspires future generations to transform and improve healthcare while also strengthening the medical community. This month is a reminder to recognize, support, and uplift women in medicine, celebrating their contributions and achievements not just in September, but every day.