How to Make a Difference with WDS
The Women’s Dermatologic Society is a wonderful
community of Dermatologists, made up of both men and women, which supports the
personal and professional growth of its members and their communities. Founded
in 1973, WDS has provided Dermatologists at all levels in their career the
opportunity to connect personally and build lasting relationships while growing
professionally and making a difference. There are so many ways to become
involved – Join Us Today!
VOLUNTEER: Impact Your Community
WDS has a presence in our local, regional, and international communities through a variety of outreach programs and grassroots campaigns. As Dermatologists, we know that sun safety is extremely important. As such, WDS has created multiple avenues through which to educate our patients and communities including skin cancer screenings and prevention outreach, sun safety education, and addressing total women’s health through the dermatology gateway.
Play Safe in the Sun
In 2004, the “Play Safe in the Sun” program was developed and launched to bring board certified Dermatologists to public events around the country. The goal of this program is to raise awareness about skin cancer and sun safety by providing free skin cancer screenings, sun damage assessments, sun safety educational materials and complimentary sunscreen samples at community events.
Coast-2-Coast
Another named initiative is the “Coast-2-Coast” program, which is a member driven extension of the “Play Safe in the Sun” program. This program empowers communities with the tools and resources for local sun safety and skin cancer prevention activities. Members are encouraged to create unique educational outreach events in their local communities throughout the year.
TIPP Women’s Shelter Initiative
The “Women’s Shelter Initiative” was developed in relation to the “Transforming Interconnecting Project Program: Total Women’s Health Via the Dermatology Gateway (TIPP)” program which lifts up women in need. The goal of the program is to address the health needs of the total woman including skin care, oral hygiene, self-care habits, nutrition and social skills so that they can live their lives as their best selves – inside and out.
Our members are involved and appreciate these volunteer opportunities. WDS provides the support and guidance to empower members to create and execute the education outreach events that would be most impactful their offices and communities. For information on how to get involved, please visit the WDS Website or contact wds@womensderm.org.
Learn more about WDS Service Programs:
TIPP Women’s Shelter Initiative
“The WDS makes it
extremely easy for members to make a difference in their local and regional
communities by hosting sun safety education events, skin cancer screenings,
educational and self-esteem sessions through the women's shelter initiative,
and so much more! There is a place for everyone in the service arm of the WDS
-- go online to request materials and support to host a local event in your
area!”
- Ashley
Wysong, MD, MS, WDS Board of Directors
“The Women's
Dermatologic Society’s Play Safe in the Sun and Coast-2-Coast Events allow
dermatologist members the opportunity to reach out to their communities and
engage others in sun safe practices through education and outreach events. I
love being a part of the community, enjoying the outdoors safely, and spreading
sun safe habits to others."
- M. Laurin
Council, MD, WDS Board of Directors
NETWORK: Build Personal and Professional Relationships
One specific initiative includes the “Regional Group” program, which facilitates local gatherings of Dermatologists to discuss networking and discuss hot topics in dermatology, women’s issues, and more.
The Mentor Program allows Dermatologists the opportunity to contact an expert for advice and guidance through a non-formal rotation using the “Mentor Directory.” The benefit of such a non-formal opportunity is that it allows each unique mentor-mentee pair to determine the subject, duration, and intensity of the project and relationship. This opportunity is available to all members from residency through mid to late career Dermatologists.
Other events include the “Networking Receptions” and “Panel Discussions” that occur at national and international dermatology conferences including WDS Forum, AAD, ASDS, ACMS, SID, MauiDerm, World Congress, EADV, and CDA. These events provide formal programming as well as informal time to connect with colleagues. With so many to choose from, we hope to see you at our Upcoming Events!
Learn more about WDS Networking Opportunities:
View Past WDS Event Highlights
EMPOWER: Support Current and Future Leaders of Dermatology
In addition to leadership opportunities, there are a variety of WDS awards to ensure that members at all levels of their training and career are recognized for their contributions to our community. WDS Award Programs support Dermatologists throughout their career by providing opportunities for mentorship, leadership, and education. Additionally, WDS recognizes members who exemplify the core values of excellence in patient care, mentorship, volunteerism, and leadership through the WDS Annual Awards each year at the Annual Meeting and Luncheon.
For more information, please visit the WDS Website or email wds@womensderm.org.
Learn more about WDS Leadership & Membership Opportunities:
Learn more about WDS Award Opportunities:
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