The Committee on Women in Medicine and Science (COWIMS) is currently seeking new members to serve on its steering committee.
Who can submit an application?
Any School of Medicine faculty member, student, trainee, or staff member is eligible to submit an application to join the steering committee.
Membership/Service Expectations
Attend a one-hour steering committee meeting each month and serve on a sub-committee. Subcommittees include Advocacy and Awards, Professional Development, Data Analytics, Programming/events, and Media. Many of the subcommittees have additional meetings and plan 1-2 events per academic year. This service opportunity is a three-year term.
Application and deadline
Please submit your application here by Friday, Dec 6.
History and mission
The mission of the Committee on Women in Medicine and Science (COWIMS) is to promote and enable the representation, development, and contributions of all individuals. UVA School of Medicine launched COWIMS 20 years ago in 2004, when the Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development was established in the School of Medicine’s Dean’s Office. COWIMS is managed by the Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development, aligning with Association of American Medical Colleges’ women-focused groups.
Why Join COWIMS Steering Committee?
“Being part of UVA’s COWIMS has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As Co-Chair of the Programming and Events subcommittee, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of collaboration, community, and support among women in STEM. We create opportunities for growth, mentorship, research, networking, and advocacy, empowering one another to break down barriers and achieve our goals. I encourage anyone passionate about fostering diversity, inclusivity, and gender equity to join us—together, we can drive change and make a lasting impact.” —Alyssa Cole Mixon, DO, MBA, Assistant Professor and Associate Program Director, UVA Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and COWIMS Programming/Events Subcommittee Co-chair
“Being on the University of Virginia COWIMS Steering Committee, particularly as part of the Professional Development Subcommittee, provides a platform to influence meaningful change by supporting the career growth of women in medicine and science. As a co-chair of this committee, I have had the opportunity to foster leadership skills, expand my network, and collaborate with professionals dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion. Joining the committee allows you to actively contribute to initiatives that empower colleagues and create an environment of mentorship and professional development.” —Kim Penberthy, Ph.D., ABPP, Chester F. Carlson Professor of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences and COWIMS Professional Development Subcommittee Co-chair
Learn More
Filed Under: Call for Nominations