Neil S. Sadick, MD, FACP
WDS Treasurer (2014-2017)
The Women’s Dermatologic Society is an organization that represents the very best aspects of dermatology. In terms of networking, public service and career development opportunities, there is no other organization in dermatology that meets those needs. Making our patients and the public healthier and happier, and most importantly, advancing the careers of members of our esteemed organization is what the WDS does.
Having served in various capacities with the WDS on several membership boards and leadership positions over the past 10 years, I have come to understand that the organization not only represents women, but represents men as well. It really is a non-gender organization that benefits all. The relationships that I have fostered in my working with the organization over the past decade, have made me a better doctor, a better person, a better leader in my practice, and allows me to have a better understanding of how important it is to serve our patients and serve the public in capacities that I never thought were possible before.
Michelle Babb-Tarbox, MD
WDS Young Physicians Committee Member (2013-2016)
WDS Board of Directors (2019-2023)
My first introduction to the Women's Dermatologic Society was during the first year of my residency. I consider it one of the great good fortunes of my life that I had the opportunity to learn from Dr. Wilma Bergfeld. She generously introduced me to the friendship, fellowship, and fun of the WDS through my first WDS luncheon at the AAD.
I felt so welcomed at that first of many WDS functions as I met several of the wonderful members of our beloved society. I recall with fondness the sense of sisterhood that was palpable in the ballroom as the members celebrated and supported each other. I realized immediately that this was a group of people with the goal of moving forward together and lifting each other up along the way. This has truly been my experience with the WDS, which for me is like a second family of colleagues, friends, and sisters, with the goal of elevating each member to the height of their individual potential.
I was honored during my second year of dermatology residency to receive a WDS grant to study dermoscopy with Dr. Scott Menzies. This opportunity helped shape my career and allowed me the great privilege of learning from one of the foremost authorities in his field. I now use the skills I obtained during my WDS mentorship experience every day in my practice and I teach what I have learned to my residents and medical students. Through the WDS, I also had the opportunity to attend and present at the WDS companion meeting in Berlin for the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, which was an excellent experience and allowed me my first opportunity to present at an international meeting. As I have progressed through my career, I have relished, returned, and relied on the support of my friends and colleagues in the WDS. It was my great privilege to attend the first WDS Legacy celebration in honor of Dr. Wilma Bergfeld. The atmosphere of that beautiful evening was one of celebration, sisterhood, and love. I felt so blessed to be a part of this event and was so thrilled to be there with my friend, role model, and mentor.
