The American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine hosted a Women in Medicine Panel on both campuses, bringing together a diverse group of women physicians to share their experiences in medical training and clinical practice.
Panelists discussed their journeys through residency, specialty selection, mentorship, work-life balance and family planning in medicine. The event also featured a Q&A session, allowing students to engage directly with physicians about their career paths and future goals. The panel was open to attendees of all genders.
“This event is really important so that current medical students can get advice from real female physicians and learn from the challenges they face,” said student physician Shreya Mall, president of AMWA. “It’s one thing to read about these experiences, but it’s another to hear directly from women who have navigated residency, chosen their specialties and balanced their personal and professional lives. We want students to feel supported and empowered as they think about their own paths in medicine.”
Dr. Doris Newman, Florida Campus Dean, said the panel created an opportunity for meaningful dialogue between students and physicians at different stages of their careers.
“We are really excited to talk to the students and see what they have to ask and give them whatever answers we can for their future,” Dr.Newman said. “These conversations are important because they provide clarity and reassurance. If we can offer guidance, share lessons we’ve learned and help students feel more confident about the road ahead, then we’ve done our job.”
The panel featured Dr. Arleen Lally, family medicine; Dr. Maryann Henin, internal medicine; Dr. Aimee Raup, obstetrics and gynecology; Dr. Elizabeth Chapaton-Rivard, pulmonary and intensive critical care; Dr. Dana Matthew, emergency medicine; Dr. Lindsay Hickerson, orthopedic surgery; Dr. Sheila McLeod, pediatrics; Dr. Grace Ohanaja, obstetrics and gynecology and family medicine; and Dr. Doris Newman, who practices osteopathic manipulative medicine.
Organizers said the discussion aimed to foster mentorship, transparency and community among future physicians, reinforcing Burrell College’s commitment to supporting women in medicine at every stage of their careers.
