In healthcare, the impact of women is profound, shaping the landscape of patient care, research, and administration. At UNC Health Pardee, we’re fortunate to have remarkable women whose dedication inspires us daily. This Women’s History Month, we asked our teammates to share some of their stories.
Michelle Reynolds, administrative director of Support Services and Environmental Services, received inspiration early in her career, saying “I was fortunate to have a respected leader, Marilyn Horne, who was given organizational growth opportunities as the EVS and Safety Director and allowing me to learn and grow alongside her.”
Taylor Douthit, medical laboratory scientist at Pardee Cancer Center, finds her inspiration in watching the teams around her. The lab is in the heart of medical oncology, and my day is filled with interactions between patients, nurses, and providers. I was blown away with how above and beyond this team goes to take the best care of our patients, no matter how inconvenient the task. Watching this has made me want to show up and be the best laboratorian I can every day.”
For Angela Morrow, Trauma Care program manager, Jackie Gosnell stood out as a beacon of mentorship. Under Jackie’s guidance as the ED manager, Angela found not only a leader but a champion who believed in her potential. “She modeled a way to be yourself but always be busy improving yourself. She chose me to speak with auditors/surveyors and invested in my growth. Most important, she always told me the truth and kept her promises. She models who I want to be as a woman in healthcare. She is still active in leadership and mentoring, and she has remained transparent, honest, dependable, and tough when it’s warranted.”
It’s not by chance that one learns the value of having strong women inspiring and guiding you. It became part of the fabric of the life and career of Jen Druskis, Pardee Hospital Foundation office administrator. She stated, “Throughout my career, I have always surrounded myself with smart and sophisticated women. Former bosses have become my mentors, and former co-workers have become lifelong friends. A strong network of women has supported me along each step of my career.”
The stories of mentorship and inspiration remind us that the journey toward equality and empowerment is ongoing, and it is through solidarity and support that we continue to break barriers and shape a brighter future for women in healthcare and beyond.
