In honor of Women's History Month, Self-Care Spotlight's March editions will feature prominent female leaders who have contributed to the health and wellness of Americans.
Honoring Jane E. Henney (b. 1947)
This week, we're shining a light on Jane E. Henney, a physician and public health official. Henney earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Louisville in 1969. Subsequently, she pursued a medical degree and graduated from the Indiana University School of Medicine in 1973. Driven by a passion for improving public health, she embarked on a distinguished career marked by leadership roles and accomplishments.
Henney initially gained recognition for her work in academia. She served as a faculty member at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and later as Vice President for Health Sciences at the University of New Mexico. Her commitment to medical education and research was evident throughout her academic career.
In 1993, Dr. Henney's career turned towards public service when President Clinton appointed her as Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). From 1999 to 2001, she focused on drug safety, tobacco regulation, and the approval process for new medications. Her leadership at the FDA was marked by efforts to enhance transparency and improve the agency's responsiveness to public health concerns.
After her time at the FDA, Dr. Henney continued to contribute to the healthcare sector. She served as the Senior Vice President and Provost for Health Affairs at the University of Cincinnati and later became the President of the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Jane E. Henney has been recognized throughout her career for her dedication to public health, patient safety, and medical education. Her work has left a lasting impact on the regulatory landscape of pharmaceuticals and medical devices in the United States.
Join us in celebrating the life and work of Jane E. Henney!
Honoring Dame Harriette Chick (1875-1977)
This week, we're shining a light on Dame Harriette Chick, a prominent figure in nutrition and medical research during the early to mid-20th century.
Chick's academic journey began at the University of London, where she pursued a degree in physiology, eventually earning her doctorate in 1902. She quickly garnered attention for her research, particularly in nutrition and biochemistry. In 1905, she joined the Lister Institute of Preventive Medicine, which began her lifelong commitment to advancing public health.
One of Chick's most significant contributions came during World War I when she focused on the role of nutrition in combatting infectious diseases. Her pioneering research demonstrated the connection between malnutrition and infection susceptibility, particularly tuberculosis. Her efforts led to the development of nutritional supplements for soldiers, significantly improving their overall health and resilience on the battlefield.
Following the war, Chick continued her work at the Lister Institute, delving into the study of vitamins and their impact on human health. She played a key role in identifying and isolating Vitamin D, which was crucial for preventing and treating rickets, a common health issue at the time.
Dame Harriette Chick's illustrious career extended beyond her laboratory work. She became the first woman to be appointed a professor at the University of London in 1925, breaking gender barriers in academia. Her influence reached international levels as she collaborated with researchers worldwide, contributing to the global understanding of nutrition and health.
Join us in celebrating the life and work of Dame Harriette Chick!
Honoring Lillian D. Wald (1865-1940)
This week, we're shining a light on Lillian D. Wald, a nurse, social reformer, and public health advocate. Wald's interest in healthcare and social justice led her to pursue nursing, and she graduated from the New York Hospital Training School for Nurses in 1891. However, her impact on society began when she co-founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York City in 1893. This groundbreaking institution aimed to provide comprehensive healthcare, social services, and educational opportunities to the impoverished immigrants living in the Lower East Side.
One of Wald's significant contributions was the establishment of the Visiting Nurse Service in 1893, which brought healthcare directly to the homes of those in need. This innovative approach departed from traditional healthcare models, emphasizing preventative care and community engagement.
Wald recognized the importance of education in empowering individuals and played a vital role in developing public health nursing. In 1899, she co-founded the Columbia University School of Nursing and advocated for higher education and professionalization in nursing.
Her tireless efforts in public health, social reform, and nursing earned her recognition and accolades, including being the first woman to ever receive an honorary degree from Yale University in 1915.
Lillian D. Wald's legacy endures as a trailblazer in public health and social work. Her work laid the foundation for modern community healthcare and inspired generations of individuals committed to improving the well-being of the marginalized and underserved. Wald's impact on healthcare and social reform continues to be celebrated, as her pioneering spirit resonates in the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and compassionate society.
Join us in celebrating the life and work of Lillian D. Wald!
Honoring Kim Schrier (b. 1968)
For the final week, we're shining a light on Kim Schrier, a pediatrician and a U.S. Representative from Washington State. Schrier earned her Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before pursuing a medical degree. She received her M.D. from the University of California, Davis. After completing her medical education, Schrier specialized in pediatric care and worked as a pediatrician in the Pacific Northwest, gaining valuable experience in healthcare and community health.
In 2018, Kim Schrier entered the political arena as a Democrat. She successfully ran for the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Washington's 8th congressional district. Her campaign focused on her background as a pediatrician and her commitment to healthcare reform.
As a U.S. House of Representatives member, Schrier has been involved in various committees and initiatives, focusing strongly on healthcare policy, education, and environmental issues. She has advocated for affordable and accessible healthcare, including efforts to address the rising costs of prescription drugs. Additionally, Schrier has been vocal about the need for quality education and has worked on legislation to support students and educators.
Schrier's approach to policymaking is often informed by her experiences as a healthcare professional. She emphasizes evidence-based solutions and a commitment to the well-being of families and communities.
Join us in celebrating the life and work of Kim Schrier!