Women Chief Residents (from left to right): Dawn Lazarus, M.D., Xiao-Tian Wang, M.D., Nicole Hindman, M.D.
The other piece of mentoring which I think was important was to have the support of the male hierarchy in my department and from people outside the institution in my field. That kind of support for men helps to advance their career and open opportunities, but for women who often are not perceived a priori as credible, having someone more senior affirming your credibility is key, in addition to providing academic and professional opportunities.”
Nancy Genieser, M.D. (Vice Chair and Director of Bellevue Radiology; Associate Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid)
“You are always amazed at how hard some of your colleagues are working and the adversities that they have had to overcome.”
Vivian Lee, M.D., Ph.D. (Vice Chair of Research)
- “supportive parents/family who provided an environment conducive to the development of self-confidence balanced with humility and respect for others
- exposure to women or men who, as role models, have a successful management style that resonates with one’s own personality or style
- successful “team” spirit in the workplace focused on moving forward, willing to acknowledge and learn from mistakes
- good balance between work and life outside”
On What it Takes
Nancy Genieser
“You should try to do your best. Only you know if you are giving your strongest effort. This applies to family life, patient care, research and education. A sense of humor is key.”
Genevieve Bennett
“I think I was also fortunate in attending an all women’s college, Mount Holyoke College, where there was a constant emphasis on the need for and importance of women assuming positions of leadership, whatever their chosen field. I recall the motto which was part of the school emblem “So that our daughters may serve as cornerstones, fashioned in the similitude of a palace.” As students, we were instilled with a sense of confidence and pride in our strengths and abilities, which I am sure has had an important impact on me and my career.
I think one pitfall women in our field may encounter is if they experience the occasional male chauvinism and use this as an excuse for being second best or not achieving their goals. I think that my background has probably made me somewhat more immune to this.
Finally, I think to be a good leader, whether male or female, one has to have a sense of commitment, priority and dedication. You have to find satisfaction and fulfillment in your work and always strive to be the best that you can, never settling for anything less. In my life, my most formidable competitor has always been myself.”
Georgeann McGuinness
“Participation early in one’s career in departmental initiatives when the opportunity presents itself. This affords you a chance to demonstrate your organizational skills, your ability to work with others, management skills, time management, etc., even if you are not the project leader. It also establishes your commitment to the department, especially if the task at hand is not one that will directly advance your career on a personal level. Be assured that such ‘selfless’ efforts do not go unnoticed.
As leadership positions are offered to you, this commitment and responsibility becomes ever more important. Once you are leading a group you must hold yourself forth as the model of behavior and the paradigm of excellence for the group. This can be exhausting. It also takes thicker skin than most of us want to have. Once you are a leader you are a target.
On a more positive note effective leadership demands true enthusiasm for the project, the section, the department, etc. This is infectious, and people will ‘buy in’ to what you are trying to do when they see your commitment. The flip side is that a lack of zeal will sap your ability to lead—unfortunately this too can be exhausting.
Finally, leadership requires understanding people—what motivates them, what are their skills and limitations, how to get them engaged.”
Nancy Fefferman “Two words come to mind. The first is “endurance.” Managing the multi-faceted daily tasks of an academic career in medicine and the responsibilities of a family really requires an endless flow of energy. (And I do not always know where that comes from.) The second word is “dedication”, a personal quality I believe is often the source of my energy. Most importantly, however, to my success in managing a full time profession in medicine for me has been a strong support network, namely my husband. His understanding, flexibility, and encouragement have really enabled me to achieve many of my professional goals and he continues to be an inspiration to me.”
How You Do It
Nancy Genieser “Never take yourself too seriously. Appreciate what others are doing. Always try to find the best in those with whom you deal on a daily basis. There is good in everyone even if you don’t see it every day. Never carry a grudge and never respond in anger: Wait until you are in control of your emotions. All of us have good days and bad days and never expect that your colleagues will always be upbeat. Stay focused on what you are doing for that moment. If you are out with your husband or a friend make them feel how glad you are to be in their company and enjoy the evening.”
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