In 2021, JoAnne Flynn, Distinguished Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics and now chair of that department, looked into the demographics of the School of Medicine’s endowed chairs, highly sought-after positions that offer distinction and stable support for top faculty. Out of 84 of these chairs, Flynn found, only 13 were held by women. Yet women make up 44% of the faculty.

Flynn and colleagues, who had formed a task force, met with Dean Anantha Shekhar to discuss their findings; and he committed to expanding leadership opportunities and support for women faculty. Since then, the school has named three more women as endowed professors.

Patricia Opresko, a PhD and leading telomere researcher, is the Dr. Bernard F. Fisher Professor of Breast Cancer Discovery Science. Opresko also serves as coleader of the Genome Stability Program at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

Wendie Berg, an MD, PhD admired for her work optimizing breast cancer screening technologies, is the Dr. Bernard F. Fisher Professor of Breast Cancer Clinical Science. She works to improve breast cancer detection in women who have a history of breast cancer or dense breast tissue.

Raquel Buranosky, an MD, MPH known for her work in women’s health and curriculum development, is the Dr. Leo H. Criep Professor in Patient Experience. Nationally regarded for her work in medical education, she is also the associate dean for clinical education in the Office of Medical Education.

Says Flynn, “[Dean Shekhar] is committed to raising the profile of women. And so far, I have to say, he’s doing a good job.”

Read more from the Fall 2023 issue.