President's Message
By Wendy E. Roberts, MD
Winter 2009 - 2010
As WDS readies to celebrate its 35th Anniversary at the Annual AAD meeting in Miami, this is a time for remembering our legacy and reflecting on the wonderful journey we have shared.
In 1973, Dr. Miriam Reed and Dr. Wilma Bergfeld organized a small gathering inspired by the need for women dermatologists to gather together and network. That first networking event sparked the formation of the WDS--today an organization with over 1,600 members worldwide in 25 countries, with an 8% male membership.
In 1993, the WDS Mentorship program was spawned through the generosity of Dr. Francis Storrs and the vision of Dr. June Robinson. This cornerstone WDS program celebrated 16 years of mentorship success in 2009. To date, more than 400 mentorship awards have been given, with countless stories that demonstrate the mutual rewards and benefits of this model program.
As you will see in this internationally-focused newsletter, the “Wonderful World of WDS” has broadened its impact and deepened its connections all over the globe.
Dr. Jean Bolognia, 2009 recipient of the ILDS Certificate of Appreciation, fosters international relationships by reaching out in the global dermatology community.
As part of our cross-cultural bonds of collegiality and friendship, many of us have participated in international meetings throughout the year, as you will read about in this issue. With the recent typhoon disaster in the Philippines, WDS extended support to help Dr.Vangee Handog’s efforts to aid her country.
Within WDS, we are growing to meet the needs and interests of our diverse membership. We are extremely proud of two new committees, the Young Physicians Task Force group, chaired by Dr. Mona Gohara and the Business Interest Group, co-chaired Drs. Cheryl Burgess and Carrie Jacobs. Please visit the beautifully revamped WDS website to learn more about these terrific new groups and other WDS activities.
WDS understands that by reaching out to members of the media, we are able to educate the public about important dermatologic issues. Drs. Amy Derick and Zoe Draelos chaired the 3rd WDS Media Day, a huge success that was conducted in the spirit of WDS mentorship.
WDS outreach has extended across the globe into India where Dr. Rashmi Sarkar recently hosted the first WDS networking reception in India. I had the wonderful opportunity to network with the women of India at this historic and successful event.
Wrapping up our sixth outreach season at press time, WDS members volunteered at the final 2009 Play Safe in the Sun event in Houston, co-chaired by Drs. Deb MacFarlane and Lucile White.
WDS has grown tremendously over the years, through networking, mentorship, career development, outreach and service. In WDS there is something for every member, and I encourage you to get involved and know that you will receive back much more than you give.
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