The Department of Radiology held its very first “Ladies Night Out” on January 8! Interest for the event was generated by many of the female colleagues desiring a social gathering outside of work for time to talk and get to know one other and enjoy a good meal. The dinner, which took place at the Cabana Restaurant in Hillsboro Village, served as a great opportunity to discuss issues faced by women and how to work communally for the advancement of their careers.
The event was sponsored by the Department of Radiology and hosted by their Vice-Chair of Diversity, Stephanie Spottswood, MD, MSPH. Also assisting with the arrangement was Dr. Lucy Spalluto from the Breast Center and Center for Women's Imaging. Dr. Reed Omary, Carol D. & Henry P. Pendergrass Professor and Chair for the Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences was also in attendance to give his encouragement and support.
After some brief introductions, the topic was initiated from a personal perspective by Dr. Spalluto who discussed the book “Lean In” authored by Sheryl Sandberg, CEO of Facebook. This book is a candid and anecdotal discussion of issues Ms. Sandberg has faced during her career. The Department of Radiology has demonstrated its commitment to advancing women within the department by graciously offering to purchase each women faculty member in the department a copy of the book.
Dr. Spottswood contributed to the topic from a professional point of view by asking what can be done collectively and administratively. The women, from all rank and experience, talked about some of the obstacles that female faculty members encounter, identified their desire for recognition, advancement and promotion opportunities.
The group hopes to develop a plan to groom interested female faculty for positions of leadership in radiology. For those aspiring to develop a strong career in the clinical aspect of radiology, the aim is to find new approaches or systems to resolve any issues faced on clinical service and to make work life more enjoyable.
