About the Guest(s):

Dr. Terri L. Young is the Peter Duer Endowed Professor and Chairwoman of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She is a renowned pediatric ophthalmologist and clinician scientist, having dedicated over 25 years to groundbreaking research in ophthalmic genetics and genomics, specifically focusing on refractive error, ocular development, and childhood glaucoma. Dr. Young is a leader in numerous national and international organizations and currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Arville and the Association for University Professors of Ophthalmology. Her commitment to diversity and innovation has made a transformative impact on the field of ophthalmology.

Dr. Gloria Fleming is a Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, known for her expertise as an anterior segment surgeon and glaucoma specialist. Widely celebrated as one of the best doctors in America, Dr. Fleming is an advocate for diversity in academic medicine. She holds significant leadership roles as an Assistant Dean for Faculty Diversity and Inclusion and Vice Chair for Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Talent. Her leadership in these areas has contributed to impactful initiatives, earning her prestigious awards and accolades. She is also a Fellow of the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) class of 2025.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of WPO Journey into Academia, co-hosts Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant engage in a dynamic conversation with esteemed ophthalmologists Dr. Terri L. Young and Dr. Gloria Fleming. The episode provides a glimpse into their personal and professional journeys, highlighting key experiences and challenges that shaped their careers in academic medicine.  

Dr. Young and Dr. Fleming discuss pivotal moments and breakthroughs in their careers, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, resilience, and self-awareness in overcoming challenges and driving meaningful change to advocate for innovation in ophthalmology. The conversation also covers themes of inclusivity in academic settings, reflecting on lessons learned and offering actionable advice for creating equitable environments in medicine. The guests share insights into the academic promotion process and provide tips for successfully navigating career transitions, making this episode a valuable source of guidance and inspiration for current and aspiring women professors in ophthalmology.

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of Mentorship and Networking: Both guests emphasize the significant role of mentorship and networking in career development and success.

• Navigating Career Transitions: Dr. Young and Dr. Fleming provide strategies for making thoughtful career transitions and highlight the importance of understanding personal and professional needs.

• Inclusive Leadership: The episode covers the critical need for diversity and inclusion within academic medicine, showcasing how these principles contribute to improved healthcare and educational environments.

• Resilience in Career Challenges: The guests share personal stories of overcoming obstacles in their careers, demonstrating how resilience and self-advocacy can lead to positive outcomes.

• Lifelong Learning and Collaboration: Both ophthalmologists underscore the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in academia, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and growth.

Notable Quotes:

1. “I think having that closer relationship with these teachers made me understand and realize how impactful that what they do is for someone else.” - Dr. Terri L. Young

2. “There are so many resources there that I just didn’t know about, and so much guidance that I didn’t know about.” - Dr. Gloria Fleming

3. “It’s extremely important in our learning environment, in our trainees, in diversifying our workforce.” - Dr. Gloria Fleming

4. “Sometimes you just don’t realize what your worth is until you have to go somewhere else.” - Dr. Terri L. Young

5. “What are we doing in our daily lives to change the circumstance, to fight the systems?” - Dr. Terri L. Young

Resources:

• University of Wisconsin, Madison Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

• The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

• Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM)

Dive deep into the captivating journeys and insightful conversations of women leaders in ophthalmology by tuning into this episode. Stay engaged with WPO Journey into Academia for more inspiring content that shapes the future of the field.

We invite you to listen to this enlightening episode to further explore the inspiring journeys of Dr. Thorne and Dr. Ramanathan. Stay tuned for more captivating stories from phenomenal women who have paved the pathway of ophthalmology on WPO Journey into Academia.

Dr. Jennifer Thorne Dr. Jennifer Thorne is a distinguished ophthalmologist and academic leader. She serves as the Cross Family Professor of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute, where she leads the Division of Ocular Immunology and Uveitis. Dr. Thorne is at the forefront of ocular inflammatory disease research, serving as the Medical Officer for the MUST Research Group and Editor in Chief of Ocular Immunology and Inflammation. She also holds a joint appointment as a Professor of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and is the Chair of the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) Fellowship Compliance Committee board of managers.

Dr. Saras Ramanathan Dr. Saras Ramanathan is a leading figure in medical education within ophthalmology. She holds the Stephen P. Shearing Professorship of Ophthalmology and is the Vice Chair for Medical Education and Residency Program Director at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Ramanathan is well-known for her innovative approaches to teaching cataract surgery and surgical simulation. Her contributions have significantly influenced ophthalmological training across the United States. She also serves as the Medical Director of Comprehensive Ophthalmology and Senior Associate Editor of the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology.

Welcome to another insightful episode of WPO Journey into Academia, where Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vagaranant explore the narratives of pioneering women in academic ophthalmology. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Thorne and Dr. Saras Ramanathan share their journey in academic medicine, highlighting their impactful work in ocular immunology and medical education. These influential leaders delve into how mentorship and collaboration have shaped their careers, offering listeners a glimpse into their professional world.

In this episode, the conversation flows into the importance of empathy in education, balancing academic and personal life, and the significance of long-term career planning by writing goals down to maintain focus. Dr. Thorne and Dr. Ramanathan reflect on their own paths, emphasizing the value of collaboration with diverse experts and mentorship that extends beyond conventional boundaries. From pursuing research in ocular inflammatory diseases to revolutionizing cataract surgery training methods, these experts provide insights that are both profound and practical for those in the field of ophthalmology.

• Embrace Multifaceted Roles: Dr. Thorne emphasizes the rewarding balance in academia involving patient care, teaching, and research.

• Empathy in Education: Both guests underscore the necessity of empathy and personalized teaching methods for effective mentorship and education.

• Collaboration and Mentorship: Leveraging diverse skill sets through collaboration you can broaden your professional growth and opportunities.

• Strategic Career Planning: Establishing five-year plans aligned with personal values and goals can significantly propel professional development.

• Adaptability and Evolution: Dr. Ramanathan showcases the dynamic nature of academic careers and the evolving roles that mentors and educators play.

1. "I liked the idea of being able to take care of patients and teach or mentor as well as doing some research." - Dr. Jennifer Thorne

2. "I still come to work every day and love the mission of teaching people how to do something they desperately want to do." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

3. "Empathy is way more effective in teaching than impatience." - Dr. Jennifer Thorne

4. "You must write down your goals; it keeps you on the trajectory that you want to be on." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

5. "Amazingly, the people I taught now are collaborators; it's a great way to stay in touch and help each other." - Dr. Saras Ramanathan

• Wilmer Eye Institute: Wilmer Eye Institute

• University of California, San Francisco: UCSF Ophthalmology

• Journal of Academic Ophthalmology: Journal Site

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Susan Day: Dr. Susan Day is a trailblazing ophthalmologist celebrated for her contributions to medical education and leadership in ophthalmology. She was the first female president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and has served as Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology at California Pacific Medical Center. Dr. Day has worked extensively with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, influencing international standards in medical education. Post-retirement in 2021, she has returned to her passion for music alongside her illustrious medical career.

Dr. Joan Miller: Dr. Joan Miller is renowned for her groundbreaking work in ophthalmology, particularly in retinal diseases. She was the first woman to be appointed Chair of Ophthalmology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Massachusetts General Hospital, as well as the first female professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Miller’s research includes pioneering photodynamic therapy (PDT) and the identification of VEGF’s role in retinal diseases, leading to anti-VEGF therapies. She has published over 400 research investigations and continues to impact the future of ophthalmology.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of WPO Journey into Academia, hosts Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant interview two inspiring leaders in ophthalmology, Dr. Susan Day and Dr. Joan Miller. These pioneering women have paved the way for future generations through their exceptional careers in medical education and research, breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for women in the field. They reflect on their unique journeys, discussing the importance of mentors, overcoming challenges, and achieving a balance between their professional and personal lives.

The conversation covers how both guests found their paths to academia without prior family ties in medicine, highlighting the influence of serendipity and supportive mentors. Dr. Susan Day elaborates on her tenure as the first female president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, while Dr. Joan Miller discusses the challenges and learnings she encountered as Chair of Ophthalmology at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. They emphasize the evolving nature of academic expectations and the critical role of humor and authenticity in leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of mentorship, from both men and women, in shaping successful careers in academia and ophthalmology.

• Overcoming hierarchical structures and gender-based challenges through perseverance and strategic use of humor.

• Balancing clinical practice, research, and administration helps to maintain flexibility and encourages career sustainability.

• The necessity of embracing change and new interests to continually grow and develop professionally and personally.

• Staying connected with colleagues and family, alongside personal pastimes like music or reading, provides essential stress relief and enrichment.

Notable Quotes:

1. “You have to lead in a way that’s authentic to you.” — Dr. Joan Miller

2. “It’s wonderful to change. It’s just wonderful to change.” — Dr. Susan Day

3. “There’s so many choices and decisions you’re making all the time. Life is about living it as you’re encountering it.” — Dr. Susan Day

4. “We wouldn’t know each other if it weren’t for these organizations that we attend.” — Dr. Susan Day

5. “Never would have envisioned any of what has happened to me. Very lucky and happy to have done what I’ve done.” — Dr. Joan Miller

Listen to the full episode to discover more about the journeys of these remarkable women professors in ophthalmology. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from leading women in academia on the WPO Journey into Academia podcast series.

Dr. Kathryn Colby: Dr. Kathryn Colby is the Elizabeth J. Cohen Professor and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. An esteemed academic cornea specialist, Dr. Colby is renowned internationally for her groundbreaking research on Fuchs corneal dystrophy, a leading cause of corneal transplantation in the United States. She has been a pioneer in non-transplant treatments for this condition, greatly expanding patient options beyond surgery. Dr. Colby is also a dedicated educator and mentor, having guided numerous students, residents, fellows, and faculty members in her career.

Dr. Jacque L. Duncan: Dr. Jacque Duncan is Chair and Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco. She also chairs the Scientific Advisory Board for the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Her expertise encompasses inherited retinal degenerations, such as age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and Stargardt disease. Dr. Duncan has driven forward significant research collaborations and has played a pivotal role in advancing clinical trials for new therapies. She serves as a critical bridge between clinical practice and scientific research through her leadership at the Foundation Fighting Blindness Clinical Consortium.

In this episode of "WPO: Journey into Academia," hosts Cat and Thasarat engage in an enlightening discussion with two influential figures in the field of ophthalmology, Dr. Kathryn Colby and Dr. Jacque Duncan. The episode delves into their professional journeys and the defining experiences that have shaped their careers. Both guests highlight their unique paths to academia, driven by a keen interest in ophthalmology and a commitment to innovation and research in corneal and retinal diseases. This conversation provides insights into the balance of personal motivation and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and self-awareness in achieving success in academia and medical research.

Dr. Colby and Dr. Duncan discuss their leadership roles as department Chairs at NYU and UCSF, exploring the complexities and rewards of guiding their departments. They candidly share the joys of mentoring emerging talents in their field, along with the challenges of meeting institutional goals while fostering an inclusive and supportive professional environment. The episode emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and enduring commitment to advancing ophthalmic knowledge. With narratives rich in personal experiences and insights, this episode is a deep dive into the lives and careers of two women propelling the field of ophthalmology forward.

• The significance of embracing uncertain career paths and seizing mentorship opportunities for professional growth.

• Insights into the complexities and rewards of leadership roles within academic medical departments.

• Practical travel tips for balancing productivity and relaxation while attending conferences.

• The importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and work-life balance, particularly in demanding roles.

• Encouragement for women in academia to overcome the imposter syndrome and pursue leadership opportunities.

1. "It's going to be okay. You're good enough; you're hardworking, and people like you." — Jacque L. Duncan, M.D.

2. "We have to give your boss, the dean, what he or she is expecting from the department." — Kathryn Colby, MD, PhD

3. "I have a friend who writes out a five-year strategic plan…I have always taken advantage of opportunities that come my way." — Jacque L. Duncan, M.D.

4. "Meditation is key to self-awareness and having a healthy relationship with everyone else." — Kathryn Colby, MD, PhD

5. "I was interested in vision for a long time because both my grandparents lost vision from age-related macular degeneration." — Jacque L. Duncan, M.D.

• NYU Grossman School of Medicine

• University of California, San Francisco

• Foundation Fighting Blindness

Dr. Carol L. Shields: Dr. Shields is a leading ocular oncologist, currently serving as the Director of Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital and a professor of ophthalmology at Thomas Jefferson University. With an impressive bibliography of over 2000 scientific reports, her work has significantly influenced the field of ocular oncology, particularly in eye cancers such as retinoblastoma and uveal melanoma. She has held prestigious roles, including the presidency of the International Society of Ocular Oncology and the Macula Society. In 2020, Dr. Shields was ranked the NUMBER 1 spot on the Ophthalmology Power List released each year by “The Ophthalmologist”, which highlights the most influential people in the field. 

Dr. Jennifer Lim: Dr. Lim is the Director of Retina Service and Vice Chair for Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has an esteemed career with over 350 publications and involvement in over 50 clinical studies and trials on critical vision diseases like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. She holds leadership positions in multiple organizations, including the Retina Society and Women in Ophthalmology, and is a co-founder of Women in Retina, contributing extensively to mentorship for young female professionals.

Join hosts Drs. Cat Burkat and Thasarat Vajaranant on an inspirational episode of WPO Journey into Academia as they delve into the stellar careers of two prominent women in retina, Dr. Carol L. Shields and Dr. Jennifer Lim. As renowned figures in their respective fields, both Dr. Shields and Dr. Lim have paved the way for women in academic ophthalmology and continue to contribute to the advancement of ophthalmology through groundbreaking research and leadership roles.

The episode discusses the unique journeys and defining moments that led Dr. Shields and Dr. Lim to their esteemed positions in academic medicine. Emphasizing the challenges faced and overcome, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated sphere, the conversation highlights their relentless passion, dedication, and desire to mentor the next generation. Topics such as work-life balance, overcoming the imposter syndrome, and the importance of mentorship are examined, providing a comprehensive view of their accomplishments and personal journeys. Dr. Lim's insight on women's imposter syndrome and Dr. Shields's advice to "always give a talk" at meetings resonate as powerful encouragements for budding academics.

• Dr. Carol Shields discusses her unexpected path into academia, motivated by a personal relationship and a drive to improve the field of ocular oncology.

• Dr. Jennifer Lim's early inspiration to pursue academics was driven by an ambition to engage in clinical research and address major ophthalmological diseases.

• Both guests emphasize the importance of self-belief, mentorship, collaboration, and adaptability in overcoming challenges and advancing in their careers.

• The significance of work-life balance is highlighted as both guests share their unique approaches to managing high-powered careers and family life.

• Dr. Shields and Dr. Lim showcase the rewarding experience of mentorship as a reciprocal journey that enriches both the mentor and the mentee in academia.

• Wills Eye Hospital

• Thomas Jefferson University

• University of Illinois at Chicago Department of Ophthalmology

• Women in Ophthalmology

• Retina Society

Dr. Jane Edmond is the current president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and holds the prestigious Wong Family Distinguished University Chair and professorship in the Department of Ophthalmology at Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin. She previously served as President of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) in 2019. Dr. Edmond is renowned for her work in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus surgery and neuro-ophthalmology, as well as her leadership role in medical education and professional practice.

Dr. Tamara Fountain is a past president of the AAO (2021) and a professor of ophthalmology at Rush University Medical Center, where she is the section chair emeritus of Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Fountain has also been a president of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) and the Illinois Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons. With a rich background in academic and clinical practice, she is notable for her contributions to medical education and mentorship.

Welcome to this insightful episode of WPO Journey into Academia, featuring two trailblazing women in the field of ophthalmology, Dr. Jane Edmond and Dr. Tamara Fountain. Both guests have significantly impacted clinical practice and academia, breaking barriers and setting exemplary standards for medical education and leadership. In this episode, Dr. Edmond and Dr. Fountain share their unique academic journeys, the challenges they faced, and their motivations that kept them in academia despite the demanding roles.

Listen in with hosts Dr. Cat Burkat and Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant as they discuss key factors that led them to academia, revealing how the path often chooses you rather than the other way around. Despite the demands of academia, both guests emphasize the importance of mentorship, adaptability, and the joy of teaching. Discover Dr. Edmond's commitment to tackling workforce shortages and her plans for advancing postgraduate surgical coaching, and hear Dr. Fountain reflect on her presidency during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. These inspiring stories underscore the power of perseverance and the importance of adaptable leadership in shaping future generations of ophthalmologists.

• Leadership through Opportunity: Both Dr. Edmond and Dr. Fountain describe how their paths into academia and leadership were shaped by unexpected opportunities and mentorship rather than a preconceived plan.

• Resilience and Growth: Challenges, including imposter syndrome and professional setbacks, are part of leadership. Identifying them as growth opportunities can contribute to professional development and resilience.

• Academic Impact: The role of teaching in academia is emphasized as both a privilege and a powerful tool for personal and professional rejuvenation.

• Work-Life Balance: Striking a balance between professional demands and personal life, including parenting, shapes leadership styles and approach to academia.

• Future of Ophthalmology: Initiatives like Dr. Edmond's postgraduate surgical coaching reflect innovative approaches to continuous learning and improvement within the field, vital to both practitioners and patients.

• Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO) - Visit https://aupo.org/women-professors-ophthalmology

• Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin: Website

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO): Website

• Rush University Medical Center: Website

Dr. Lynn K. Gordon, MD, PhD Dr. Lynn K. Gordon is Professor Emeritus of Ophthalmology at the Stein Eye Institute. She has made significant contributions to academia through her role as the inaugural Senior Associate Dean for Equity and Diversity Inclusion at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. An accomplished clinician scientist, Dr. Gordon has held numerous leadership roles, including being a board member of the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society, past president of the California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, and past president of Women in Ophthalmology.

Dr. Sandra Kazahn Masur, PhD Dr. Sandra Kazahn Masur is a Professor of Ophthalmology and Pharmacological Sciences. She is the founding director of the Office for Women's Careers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. With a robust career over 35 years, she has been the principal investigator for numerous NIH-funded studies focusing on cell biology, membrane transport, and corneal wound healing.

Join hosts Drs. Thasarat Vajaranant and Cat Burkat in this enlightening episode of Women's Professors in Ophthalmology, where they delve into the unique journeys of distinguished women in academia. The conversation focuses on the varied paths and challenges these women navigated while forging impressive careers in the field of ophthalmology and how their personal and professional experiences have shaped their advocacy for diversity and women’s mentorship.

Dr. Lynn Gordon discusses her career as reminiscent of an old-fashioned pinball game, emphasizing the unpredictability and the importance of recognizing opportunities. Through real-life examples, she illustrates breaking barriers and learning from challenges, underscoring the theme of adaptability and passion in pursuing a successful career in academia. Dr. Sandra Kazahn Masur shares insights on balancing life’s demands, emphasizing the need to prioritize and strategize creatively. Her analogy of juggling acts as a metaphor for managing multiple roles simultaneously. The discussion also highlights the pivotal role of mentorship and how early collaboration can significantly impact one's career trajectory.

• Embrace the unpredictability of career paths and seize opportunities as they arise, much like a pinball game.

• Challenges and barriers are inevitable; adaptability and resilience are key to navigating them successfully.

• Women possess a unique strength in balancing multiple roles, a skill akin to mastering the art of juggling.

• Mentorship and collaboration can be transformative and are crucial for career development.

• Acknowledge and navigate through both the prevailing and new challenges faced by women in academia.

• Stein Eye Institute - Dr. Lynn Gordon's affiliation

• Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai - Dr. Sandra Kazahn Masur's affiliation

• Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO) - Visit https://aupo.org/women-professors-ophthalmology

Listen to this enlightening episode to gain insights into the career journeys of two remarkable women in ophthalmology, and stay tuned for more compelling stories and advice from other women professors of ophthalmology.

Dr. Rukhsana Misra, MD: Dr. Misra is a distinguished professor of ophthalmology and medical education at Northwestern University. She is a co-founder of the Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO) and specializes in medical retina. Dr. Misra has significantly contributed to medical education, teaching, and mentoring in her academic career.

Dr. Misha Syed, MD: Dr. Syed is a professor of ophthalmology and holds the David Weeks Chair in Ophthalmology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She is also a co-founder of WPO and has a rich background in academic medicine, focusing on glaucoma. Dr. Syed is recognized for her contributions to medical student education and her dedication to fostering the growth of future physicians.

Join Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant and Dr. Cat Burkat as they delve into the unique journeys of women professors in academia, particularly focusing on ophthalmology. In this first episode of the podcast series by the Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO), we hear from the esteemed founders, Dr. Rukhsana Misra and Dr. Misha Syed, who share their inspiring paths to becoming prominent figures in academic medicine.

The episode kicks off by exploring how Dr. Misra and Dr. Syed met and conceptualized the WPO to address the challenges women face in achieving academic promotion in ophthalmology. Through engaging conversations, they reflect on their career milestones, the importance of mentorship, and the invaluable relationships built over the years. The discussion further delves into their defining moments that led them into academia and how their career trajectories were shaped by both serendipity and structured opportunities. These stories are infused with insights and experiences that highlight the dynamic nature of academic careers in ophthalmology.

• The Power of Mentorship: Establishing diverse and meaningful mentoring relationships is crucial for career development and advancement in academia.

• Embrace Serendipity: Sometimes opportunities arise unexpectedly, and seizing them can lead to significant career breakthroughs.

• Vulnerability in Professional Growth: Being open about challenges and struggles with peers can lead to shared solutions and support.

• Diversity in Mentoring Sources: Engage with a variety of mentors to gain a broad spectrum of guidance and support.

• Dynamic Academia Careers: Academic medicine offers continuous growth and excitement, with each day presenting new opportunities and challenges.

• Women Professors of Ophthalmology (WPO) - Visit https://aupo.org/women-professors-ophthalmology

Listen to this enlightening episode to gain insights into the career journeys of two remarkable women in ophthalmology, and stay tuned for more compelling stories and advice from other women professors of ophthalmology.