Enriching Women in Cardiology (WIC) Efforts in Your State
Women in Cardiology (WIC) sections foster connection, mentorship, and visibility for women across all stages of their cardiovascular careers. Whether you’re starting something new or strengthening what already exists, this guide will help you expand the reach and impact of WIC in your state.
Three Easy Ways to Start Making an Impact
-
Join an Existing WIC Group in Your State
Reach out to your Chapter Executive to find out if a WIC committee or community already exists. Most chapters welcome help — whether it’s volunteering at an event, helping with outreach, or just showing up. -
Share Your Experience on Social Media
Use the hashtag#ACCWIC
and tag@ACCinTouch
to post about your journey in cardiology. A personal story, a career insight, or even a snapshot from your workplace can be the nudge that helps another woman choose this field. -
Nominate a Trailblazer for Recognition
Shine a spotlight on an inspiring woman in cardiology from your community. Whether it’s for a local award, a newsletter highlight, or a social media feature, recognizing others builds momentum — and brings visibility to role models that others can follow.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enriching Your State’s WIC Presence
Step 1: Check for Existing WIC Activity
- Contact your Chapter Executive or Governor to ask about existing WIC efforts.
- Offer to support any current initiatives or events already in motion.
- If none exist, proceed with the following steps to create one.
Step 2: Gather a Core Team
- Connect with women cardiologists in your state.
- Include individuals at various stages of their careers.
- Welcome supportive allies of any gender who align with the WIC mission.
Step 3: Plan a Simple but Impactful Event
Start small and intentional:
- Host a potluck or informal dinner.
- Organize a panel or breakfast meeting during your chapter’s annual event.
- Set up a virtual conversation if geography is a challenge.
Step 4: Choose Topics That Matter
Popular topics include:
- Negotiation skills and leadership development
- Work-life integration and parental leave
- Career planning, financial wellness, and academic advancement
Use engaging formats such as:
- Keynote presentations
- Panel discussions
- Peer-led roundtables
Step 5: Assign Roles and Share the Load
- Speaker outreach and agenda planning
- Venue logistics and registration coordination
- Marketing and promotions
- Day-of event management
Step 6: Explore Sponsorship
Potential sponsors include:
- Your state chapter or regional cardiology society
- Local hospitals or institutions
- Industry partners supporting gender equity in medicine
Step 7: Promote Everywhere
- Use chapter communications (emails, websites)
- Promote through the ACC WIC Section (contact your liaison)
- Post on social media:
- Twitter using
#ACCWIC
and tagging@ACCinTouch
- Women in Cardiology Group on LinkedIn
- Twitter using
- Invite medical students, residents, and early-career professionals
Step 8: Capture and Share the Story
- Invite an attendee to write a short recap for the WIC newsletter
- Encourage photo sharing and highlights using
#ACCWIC
- Submit a summary to your chapter to encourage future support
Step 9: Keep the Momentum Going
- Commit to an annual WIC event or meetup
- Create a small leadership team to ensure continuity
- Continue involving new voices from diverse backgrounds and stages