GWIMS Brief 2026
The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) Group on Women in Medicine and Science (GWIMS) was established in 2013 with support from the Office of Faculty Affairs to advance the full and successful participation of women faculty and learners in academic medicine. In 2019, UMMC GWIMS received national recognition as the recipient of the AAMC GWIMS Emerging Organization Award. During the 2025–2026 academic year, the organization was led by an Executive Board of 13 members committed to professional development, mentorship, leadership advancement, and community engagement.
Immediate Past-President Roselin Nittala, DrPH reflected on her five years of service on the Executive Board, describing GWIMS as one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of her professional journey. She emphasized the importance of service leadership, listening with empathy, advocating for others, and creating opportunities for women faculty, trainees, and staff to grow and thrive.
President Laura Hendon, MA, MS, CGA highlighted a successful year that included impactful Connect-Share-Advance programming, another outstanding Leadership Development Program cohort, support for the Evers Care Food Pantry, and meaningful mentorship opportunities connecting students and faculty. She noted the success of the LDP Mentorship Event and the Annual Awards Ceremony as highlights that showcased the achievements and contributions of the UMMC community.
Secretary Christina Ezemenaka, DrPH reflected on the breadth of GWIMS programming, including professional development workshops, mentorship initiatives, networking opportunities, community support efforts, and discussions focused on equity and wellness. She emphasized the importance of organization, communication, and continuity in sustaining the organization's mission and impact.
Awards Chair Dongmei Cui, MD (Hon), PhD recognized the achievements of faculty and students through the annual GWIMS Awards Program. This year, 25 nominees were considered for awards honoring excellence in leadership, teaching, mentoring, service, and professional achievement, recognizing individuals who have made meaningful contributions to UMMC and the broader community.
Mentoring Chair Rachel Tyrone, PhD highlighted the success of Connect-Share-Advance sessions in fostering professional development, peer connection, reflection, and open dialogue on issues affecting women in academic medicine and science. These sessions encouraged collaboration across career stages and provided practical strategies for navigating academic and clinical environments.
Membership Co-Chair Laveena Singla, MD focused on expanding awareness of GWIMS initiatives and strengthening engagement among students, trainees, and faculty. Membership efforts helped connect participants with GWIMS programs and ensured ongoing communication about opportunities for involvement and professional growth.
Programming Chair Sumana Ramarao, MD and Co-Chair Kimberly Bibb, MD led this year's Leadership Development Program, which fostered leadership growth among 15 faculty participants through sessions on career development and mentorship, ethics and integrity, institutional acumen, and communication. The cohort also organized “The Power of Connections: A Networking Experience”, bringing together students and faculty mentors to support career exploration, professional networking, and mentorship.
The 2025-2026 year reflected GWIMS's ongoing commitment to empowering women, fostering leadership, promoting mentorship, recognizing achievement, and advancing excellence in medicine and science. Through the dedication of its board members, volunteers, and participants, UMMC GWIMS continues to make a lasting impact on the institution and the communities it serves.
Authors: Dongmei Cui, Rachel Tyrone, Laura Hendon, Laveena Singla,Christina Ezemenaka, Kimberly Bibb and Roselin Nittala