Celebrating National Women Physicians Day!

National Women Physicians Day is a celebration that honors the remarkable contributions of women in the field of medicine and recognizes the challenges they have overcome to make significant strides in healthcare.

Established on February 3rd, National Women Physicians Day commemorates the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, who, in 1849, became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the pioneering spirit and resilience displayed by women in medicine throughout history, paving the way for future generations of female physicians.

The observance not only acknowledges the accomplishments of women physicians but also underscores the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and diversity within the medical profession. In this introduction, we embark on a journey through the inspiring history of National Women Physicians Day, exploring the milestones and challenges that have shaped the role of women in medicine.

At Washington University School of Medicine, our Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences proudly boasts a team of thirty-five accomplished women physicians. Today, we seize the opportunity to shine a spotlight on eight of these exceptional women, recognizing and celebrating their remarkable contributions to the field of ophthalmology and visual sciences.

Refractive Surgery for ASD: Improving Social Behavior and Adaptive Functioning in Children with Profound Autism

We are excited to announce that Dr. Margaret Reynolds, a distinguished pediatric ophthalmologist at Washington University in St. Louis, has recently been awarded a grant from the Autism Science Foundation. This one-year grant, starting on February 1st, 2024, aims to explore the potential benefits of vision correction through refractive surgery for children with profound autism. […]

Spotlight on Erin Sieck, MD

As we celebrate National Women Physicians Day, we are honored to shine a spotlight on the remarkable Erin Sieck, MD a Washington University Glaucoma Specialist. Her journey in medicine has been marked by dedication and a commitment to advancing surgical outcomes for her patients. Education Inspiration and Career Calling Driven by a passion for making […]

Spotlight on Carla Siegfried, MD

As we celebrate National Women Physicians Day, we are honored to shine a spotlight on the remarkable Carla Siegfried, MD Jacquelyn E and Allan E Kolker MD Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology, a Washington University Glaucoma Specialist. Beyond her role as an accomplished ophthalmologist; we celebrate a trailblazer whose resilience, dedication, and mentorship are shaping the […]

Spotlight on Amritha Kanakamedala, MD

As we celebrate National Women Physicians Day, we are honored to shine a spotlight on the remarkable Amritha Kanakamedala, MD a Washington University Ophthalmology Resident. As a passionate and dedicated ophthalmologist, Dr. Kanakamedala’s journey is an inspiring testament to the impact women physicians make in the world of medicine. Education Inspiration and Career Calling Dr. […]

Spotlight on Cynthia L. Montana, MD, PhD

On this National Women Physicians Day, we honor the outstanding contributions of Cynthia L. Montana, MD, PhD, a distinguished Washington University Comprehensive Ophthalmologist. Dr. Montana’s story in the field of medicine is not merely one of accolades and achievements, but a narrative of perseverance, inspiration, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Education Inspiration and Career Path […]

Spotlight on Mary-Grace Reeves, MD, MBA

As we celebrate National Women Physicians Day, we are honored to shine a spotlight on the remarkable Mary-Grace Reeves, MD, MBA, a Washington University Ophthalmology Resident. Her journey in medicine has been marked by dedication and a commitment to supporting and mentoring those in the early stages of their medical training. Education Inspiration and Career […]

Spotlight on Linda Tsai, MD, FACS

On National Women’s Physician’s Day, we are pleased to honor the exemplary career of Linda Tsai, MD, FACS. As we celebrate her achievements as an accomplished ophthalmologist, let’s also acknowledge her pivotal role as a mentor dedicated to guiding and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals. Join us in expressing gratitude for Dr. Tsai’s […]