WHO ARE WE? WHY ARE WE HERE?
The CUSOM - WIMS Program was developed by a group of women faculty members within the School of Medicine to provide all women faculty with the tools and opportunity to succeed in academic medicine, as a venue for communication and discussion about topics relevant to the careers and lifestyles of women in medicine and the sciences. It has grown from a handful of individuals, to a well organized group, that invites you to participate in its programs. The Program also addresses issues faced by Women Medical and Graduate Students and Residents.
The organization will help women at all levels to understand the CUSOM rules and system and will foster mentoring, advice for career advancement and networking (local and national). Our goal is to be proactive and constructive in advancing the careers of women faculty, residents and students. Our REAL goal, is to become obsolete…. When we no longer need WIMS groups, it will be a sign that women in medicine will have achieved truly equal standing, with equal opportunities for career advancement and leadership positions in medicine.
The CUSOM-WIMS organization maintains contacts with national groups such as the AAMC’s WIMS and the Society for Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine. Our programs are intentionally flexible, geared to meet the changing needs of women in academic medicine. Our activities include small group consultations and discussions centered around specific issues or problems, monthly lunchtime facilitated discussions on topics of general interest, and 1-2 yearly conferences with invited speakers. In addition, we invite all faculty, residents and students to join for occasional informal gatherings, intended to allow women at CUSOM to get to know each other and for networking, unwinding, sharing thoughts, ideas, problems.
We have a small but growing library of books, videotapes, audio tapes and article reprints on topics relating to women in medicine and science. They are kept in the Medical Dean's Suite, and are available for all to use.
Many of our activities are intended to benefit all faculty, regardless of gender. We encourage the participation of our male colleagues as well. Suggestions and ideas are always welcome.