ReMix Science and Care Celebrates Women in Medicine, Highlighting Leadership and Representation
Throughout September, ReMix recognized women whose contributions to healthcare, research, education, and mentorship continue to inspire future generations.
PITTSBURGH, PA | September 2026 — In recognition of Women in Medicine Month, ReMix Science and Care (RMSC) celebrated women whose leadership, achievements, and dedication have helped shape the medical profession.
Through a month-long recognition series, ReMix highlighted contemporary healthcare professionals and historical pioneers, emphasizing the importance of representation, mentorship, and equitable opportunities in medicine.
Recognizing Women Who Lead and Inspire
Dr. Christine Leeper, MD, MS, FACS
Among those recognized was Dr. Christine Leeper, MD, MS, FACS, a trauma surgeon, surgical intensivist, and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC. Her work focuses on trauma-induced coagulopathy, hemorrhagic shock, and transfusion medicine, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for critically injured patients. As Program Director of the UPMC Surgical Critical Care Fellowship, Dr. Leeper is also dedicated to medical education, mentorship, and advancing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Victoria Jewell-Mahler, MD, FAAP
ReMix also highlighted Dr. Victoria Jewell-Mahler, MD, FAAP, a board-certified pediatrician and clinical assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh. With more than 25 years of experience at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, her career has focused on caring for children and families, with interests in developmental pediatrics, mental health, breastfeeding support, and mentorship.
Alyssa Clayton
The series additionally recognized Alyssa Clayton, a medical student at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science whose interests include physical medicine and rehabilitation, sports medicine, and health equity. Through student leadership and mentorship, Clayton represents the next generation of healthcare professionals committed to improving representation and access within medicine.
Honoring the Women Who Paved the Way
Alongside contemporary professionals, ReMix recognized three pioneering women whose contributions transformed medicine.
Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States in 1849, challenging barriers to women's participation in medicine.
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in the United States in 1864, overcoming racial and gender discrimination while dedicating her career to caring for underserved communities.
Dr. Virginia Apgar, an anesthesiologist, developed the Apgar score, a groundbreaking assessment that transformed newborn care and continues to influence clinical practice worldwide.
Their achievements helped establish pathways for future generations of women pursuing medical careers.
Representation Matters
Although women have made extraordinary contributions to medicine, barriers related to gender, race, socioeconomic circumstances, and access to professional opportunities continue to affect educational and career pathways.
ReMix recognizes that representation is essential, but visibility alone is not enough. Meaningful progress also requires mentorship, financial resources, professional networks, and supportive learning environments.
Through its programs and community initiatives, ReMix aims to help expand these opportunities for aspiring STEM and healthcare professionals.
Continuing the Commitment
While Women in Medicine Month provides an opportunity to celebrate achievements, ReMix emphasizes that recognizing and supporting women in healthcare must remain a year-round commitment.
The organization extends its appreciation to the women who participated in its recognition series and to those whose leadership, advocacy, and mentorship continue to advance medicine.
Help inspire the next generation
Follow ReMix on social media for future professional spotlights and explore its Community Impact Partner Initiative to support opportunities for aspiring STEM and healthcare professionals.
