Honoring Women in Medicine
Each September, we observe Women in Medicine Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women across the medical profession. From pioneering research and transformative patient care to leadership in education and public health, our community members play an essential role in shaping the future of medicine. This month offers an opportunity to reflect on their achievements, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and spotlight the inspiring work of healthcare professionals past, present, and future.
At Tufts University School of Medicine, we’re proud to highlight some of our own exceptional leaders who are advancing medicine and making a lasting impact.
Showing Up, Leaning In, and Leading with Heart
Presidential Award honoree Melissa Calica, M25, is recognized for her wide-ranging civic engagement and steady leadership.
A Transformative Leader for a New Era of Research at Tufts
Dr. Iris Jaffe appointed inaugural director of the Tufts University–Tufts Medicine Research Enterprise.
TUSM Scientist Awarded Grant to Study Breast Cancer Causes
Charlotte Kuperwasser, PhD, receives funding from Find The Cause Breast Cancer Foundation to advance prevention-focused research into environmental drivers of breast cancer.
My Journey to PA
Beth Buyea’s story reveals how passion and resilience can lead to a thriving career in medicine.
When Two (Identical) Heads Are Better Than One
Twin sisters in the Master of Public Health Program have already published multiple research papers, and they’re just getting started.
Margie Skeer Named Chair of Public Health and Community Medicine
A committed leader in public health education, Dr. Margie Skeer steps into her new role with a clear vision to elevate interdisciplinary learning, community impact, and student engagement across Tufts.
Doula Training Program Demonstrates the ‘Power of Support’
Though they do not give medical advice, doulas can help pregnant clients navigate the childbirth journey.
How Mentorship is Shaping My DPT Journey at Tufts
A first-year Tufts DPT student reflects on the impact of mentorship, growth, and connection.
How One Tufts MPH Student Mapped a Path to Health Equity in Boston
By analyzing social determinants of health and census data, Jacqueline Powers, MPH25, identified the Boston neighborhood most in need of accessible care—and the best locations to build.
Healing in Harmony
Erica and Alexis Perry use music to bridge cultures, calm fears, and connect deeply with patients.
Mapping the Future of Lyme Disease Research
Blending lived experience with research leadership, Brenda Rosario Perez helps direct a groundbreaking, multi-site Lyme disease study at TUSM.
Putting Patients First—and Teaching Others to Do the Same
Through research, advocacy, and mentorship, Dr. Erika Werner is showing students how to lead with compassion.
Madeline Valverde, M25
“While my MD training taught me how to diagnose and treat illness, my MPH equipped me to understand and challenge the systems that perpetuate disparities.”
Phoebe Ryan, PA25
“Tufts PA program was simultaneously two of the most challenging and most rewarding years of my life.”
Hannah Slattery, M25
"My time at Tufts University School of Medicine, especially in the Maine Track and as a Sam W. Ho Health Justice Scholar, has been foundational in shaping me as a physician and advocate for Native American health equity."
Janet Wangoe, MBS25
“I will always be grateful for this experience and recognize it as the bridge that moved me from dreaming of being a doctor to taking the first step to make that a reality.”
Avery Tinsley, PA27
"I chose Tufts because of its undeniable commitment to the success of its students. The faculty of this program expresses a tangible energy when speaking about Tufts PA and their passion for seeing their students flourish as practicing PAs."
Raissa Li Receives 2024 Rosalind Franklin Society Award in Science
MD student Raissa's report on a rare pediatric surgical case receives national recognition from the Rosalind Franklin Society and Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
Megan Li’s Journey from Tufts MBS to Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency
“The MBS program was the perfect bridge for me, providing not only academic preparation but also the confidence I needed to pursue my dream of becoming a physician.”
Nicole Burd, PA/MPH27
"I value the longer patient visits, which allow for compassionate care and individualized treatment plans that take into account each patient’s lifestyle, background, and access to resources."
Tufts MPH Alum Journeys: Beth Jonas, MPH24
Hear Jonas' story, which highlights how the MPH program at Tufts played a key role in shaping her inspiring trajectory.
Aisha McMahon, DPT26
A current Tufts DPT student shares her journey, the challenges she's faced, and the advice she has for future students.
#OurTufts Features MD Student JuliaKay Fiori
The compassionate care JuliaKay Fiori received as a child shaped her approach to medicine. Now in the Maine Track Program, she hopes to bring that same empathy to her future patients.
Pioneering Infectious Disease Care and Education
Exploring the career of Dr. Laura Kogelman, a leader in infectious disease treatment and education.
Walking Through PA School: A Day in My Life at Tufts
Join Emily Hammond, PA26, as she shares a glimpse into her busy day as a first-year Tufts PA student!
Bridging Pathogens and Progress in Lyme Disease Research
Meet Bree Aldridge, a dynamic scientist and educator at TUSM, where her expertise in engineering, biology, and systems-level data analysis shapes groundbreaking research.
A Day in the Life of a Tufts PA Student
Join Erin Savage, PA26, as she navigates classes, friendships, and Boston's charm!
Decoding Chronic Lyme: Investigating Epigenetic Signatures
Discover how Tanja Petnicki-Ocwieja is helping advance research and discovery with the Tufts Lyme Disease Initiative.
Insights from a Tufts University MPH Student
Helen Lam, MPH24, shares her journey as a Tufts MPH student focusing on population health promotion.
The Frontier of Lyme Disease Prevention: Q&A with Kee-Lee Stocks
Discover how PhD student Kee-Lee Stocks is making strides in Lyme disease research and prevention.