- March 6, 2025
- Acadia Story
Women have made remarkable contributions to healthcare and science, shaping the field through groundbreaking research and leadership. Recognizing these trailblazers is not only a tribute to their achievements but also a call to action to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in healthcare and science, including in the field of neuroscience.
Dr. Ann McKee's leadership in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and brain injury research has transformed our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Helen Mayberg, a neurologist and psychiatrist, revolutionized depression treatment through her pioneering work in deep brain stimulation. Dr. Kay Tye's research in decoding the brain's emotional circuits has provided profound insights into mental health. Dr. Li-Huei Tsai's studies on Alzheimer's and brain aging at MIT have opened new avenues for therapeutic interventions.
These achievements highlight just a few of the women in leadership who are driving scientific breakthroughs, shaping healthcare advancements, and ultimately improving patient care.
Moving Forward: Empowering Women Leaders
Reflecting on my journey, I recognize the challenges and triumphs that come with being a woman in science. Early in my career, I often found myself as the sole woman in the room, navigating a landscape that wasn't always accommodating. Balancing professional aspirations with personal commitments required deliberate choices and, at times, sacrifices. These experiences have shaped my leadership philosophy: to lead with authenticity, embrace vulnerability, and champion an environment where everyone feels empowered to bring their true selves to work.
One of the most important things we can do is encourage young women to seek out and engage with other women who have achieved what they aspire to do. Mentorship and sponsorship are invaluable, and we must be vocal advocates for their success. But it’s not just about supporting our daughters — we must also encourage our sons to be aware of bias and expose them to strong female role models, so they understand what is possible.
Creating pathways for professional growth, expanding access to mentorship and sponsorship programs, and advocating for women in leadership at all levels are essential steps to ensure women have the opportunities, resources, and support needed to thrive and advance in their careers. This means actively removing barriers, advocating for inclusion, and ensuring that women see a clear path to leadership roles.
The Business Imperative for Women in Leadership
Despite comprising nearly 70% of the global healthcare workforce, women occupy only 25% of executive roles, highlighting a persistent leadership gap. Research underscores the business imperative for change: companies with inclusive cultures are 59% more likely to foster creativity and innovation. A recent study found that gender-diverse leadership teams in healthcare settings correlate with improved patient outcomes, more equitable care delivery, and stronger operational performance. Additionally, teams with varying perspectives help reduce clinical trial disparities and better reflect patient populations, ensuring research and treatments meet the needs of all communities.
As leaders, we need to take bets on women and their ability to manage multiple priorities. This means not making choices for them — such as assuming they wouldn’t want to travel for work before even offering them the opportunity. We must be intentional in ensuring that women are given all career-advancing opportunities.
At Acadia, advancing women in leadership is core to who we are and how we operate, and fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace is embedded in our DNA. By ensuring diverse perspectives are valued and represented at all levels, we not only enhance innovation but also drive meaningful impact for the patients we serve, reinforcing our commitment to gender equity as we continue to shape the future of healthcare.
Building a Future Where Everyone Thrives
By honoring the pioneering women who paved the way, fostering inclusive cultures where all voices are valued, and empowering the next generation of women leaders, we can build a future where innovation thrives, organizations excel, and all communities receive the care they deserve.
It starts with each of us — mentoring, advocating, and ensuring that the next generation of women leaders have the support they need to achieve their full potential.
Author
Catherine Owen Adams,
Chief Executive Officer
