March is Women’s History Month. This year’s theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” highlights the power of collective strength and the lasting influence of those who pave the way for others.

Here at ZSFG, we have phenomenal women leaders. They have made invaluable and innumerable contributions, have mentored scores of up-and-coming women leaders, and have fostered a future of equity and opportunity for all. I am pleased to share their powerful stories about inspiring the next generation of healthcare workers and leaders.

I aspire to lead by example. As a leader, I strive to inspire future generations by fostering an environment where learning, collaboration, and mentorship thrive. I believe in empowering my team by providing guidance, support, and opportunities for growth, and in return, they bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and a shared commitment to success. Together, we create a culture of continuous learning and mutual inspiration, ensuring that our collective impact extends beyond today and into the future.

– Gillian Otway, MSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer

I believe that true leadership is about passing the torch—mentoring, sponsoring, and advocating for others so they can rise, lead, and inspire the next generation. As a leader, I strive to create opportunities, amplify voices, and ensure that those who come after me are empowered with the knowledge, confidence, and support to thrive. In return, I am constantly energized and inspired by the passion, innovation, and resilience of those I mentor, reinforcing my commitment to lifting as I climb and moving forward together.

– Sabrina Robinson, MBA, CMPE, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer

I am inspired by so many of the women leaders across our teams at ZSFG who are contributing to our missions with compassion, integrity, and enthusiasm. Those are the attributes I try to bring to my work and mentorship of others. And they are values and behaviors that anyone can apply to their work, regardless of their title or formal role. One analogy about mentorship that resonates for me is the concept that when one door is opened for you, be sure to hold the door open for the person coming behind you. I have benefited from this in my work and professional journey, and I aim to extend the same practice to others — not just because it is nice to do, but it ensures even better ideas and creativity will be surfaced to help us build strong, successful and resilient teams.

– Mary Mercer, MD, MPH, Chief of Staff

I have been fortunate in my career to have been mentored by fierce women and, in turn, to be in position where I can support and foster rising female leadership. A critical juncture in my career was becoming a mother and owning the value that being a psychologist and mother brought to both my clinical and management style. One of the strengths that women bring to this work, that we are often asked by society to hide, is that we are so much more than our degrees. We are mothers, daughters, matriarchs, teachers, caregivers, sisters, and friends. Our work never ends and while we have been historically criticized for being relational, being able to develop and maintain relationships is what allows us to excel in this work. It has been a privilege to lean into our collective strength and see a critical part of my work to be supporting and uplifting the female voice, particularly being fearless in supporting our BIPOC and LGBTQ+ leaders. Our strength is our diversity, resilience, and the ability to stand on the shoulders of the revolutionary leaders that have come before us. Here’s to uplifting one another and celebrating the next generation of fierce women!

– Angelica Almeida, PhD, Chief Integrative Officer

I am honored and grateful to work alongside such remarkable women and leaders. Their wise words remind us that when we uplift and support one another, we move forward together.

As we celebrate this month, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the women who have influenced your journey, whether personally or professionally. Let’s continue to learn from, honor, and support one another.

Have a wonderful week, and thank you for all you do to make our community stronger every day.

– Susan