This year marks the formation of the very first Texas chapter of the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS). The AWS has been inspiring women surgeons since 1981 – a legacy which the UT Southwestern AWS is bringing to the Lone Star State.

Assistant Professor Sara Hennessy, M.D., hosted the first meeting of the UT Southwestern AWS at her home in Dallas, where the attendees discussed how best to support each other and other women surgeons at all stages of their careers. Topics included contract negotiation, work-life balance, and potential outreach endeavors. The meeting attracted heavy interest from other faculty, residents, and even medical students.

The UT Southwestern AWS is being spearheaded by Dr. Hennessy and Shelby Holt, M.D., as well as general surgery residents Audra Clark, M.D., and Holly Cunningham, M.D.