In celebrating and highlighting the presence and accomplishments of women in medicine and science at Pitt, the 2018 Women in Medicine and Science Forum will provide a venue for women to share strengths, talents and experience. This year’s theme is focused on women’s health and wellness in academia, and will include presentations on wellness, mindfulness, and stress management.

The yearly event aims to foster an academic culture that supports the professional and personal development of female students, postdoctoral and clinical fellows and faculty members in medicine and science.

All University faculty and staff members may find topics of interest to them at the forum and are invited to register and attend.

Ann Thompson, vice dean of the School of Medicine and a professor of critical care medicine, will provide an introduction and welcome at the start of the event on Nov. 27. Thompson serves as chair of the forum’s planning committee and said that everyone can take something of value from the forum. “Even this far into my career, I find the forum interesting and important for my own work. It’s a great opportunity to learn new skills for managing a career, overcoming personal challenges and developing a network of wonderful people.”

Among the presenters are the following Pitt female faculty members who are conducting research in the areas of health and wellness in the workplace:

Navigating the Stormy Seas of Academia: Mindfulness Anchors for Stress Reduction
Carol Greco, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Rehabilitation Science and Technology, and Physical Therapy, School of Medicine

Breathing Room: Creating Space for Rest in Everyday Moments
Layla Banihashemi, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, School of Medicine

You Got This: Insights from the Psychological Sciences on Transforming Challenge into Growth
Tanner LeBaron Wallace, Associate Professor, School of Education; Center Associate, Learning Research and Development Center

The Art and Science of Apology: Gender Differences and the Implications for Navigating Conflict in the Workplace
Karina Schumann, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences

Earning an A for Your Workday: Awareness and Activity for a Healthy Life
Kelliann Davis and Bethany Barone Gibbs, Assistant Professors of Health and Physical Activity, School of Education

In addition to presentations by faculty, other sessions will include book and panel discussions with Thompson and Sophia Choukas-Bradley, assistant professor of psychology; networking and coaching opportunities; and interactive experiences designed to facilitate learning.