Women in Wound Care (WIWC) announced its launch as the first nonprofit organization built to elevate women in wound care science by creating a professional community where clinicians, researchers, scientists, and industry can advance the science of healing together. The announcement was made at the 2026 Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC), a key gathering for wound care professionals. The organization is guided by a mission to CONNECT, Elevate, Educate, Mentor, Lead, and Innovate, with a focus on leadership development, mentorship and sponsorship, education and knowledge exchange, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and recognition—all centered on improving patient outcomes.
The launch of WIWC matters because it addresses a longstanding gap in the wound care field: the underrepresentation of women in leadership and scientific roles. By providing a dedicated platform for women to connect, mentor, and lead, the organization aims to strengthen the science of healing and ultimately improve patient care. "We created Women in Wound Care to ensure women across the wound care community are not only seen, but supported to lead," said Dawn Shepherd, BSN, RN, CWCN, CFCN, founding member. "When we connect expertise with mentorship and opportunity, we strengthen the science of healing—and ultimately improve outcomes for patients who depend on us." This emphasis on mentorship and opportunity suggests that WIWC will not only support individual career advancement but also foster a more inclusive environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
Dr. Christine Grogan, another founding member, highlighted the dual need for clinical excellence and innovation: "Wound care requires both clinical excellence and innovation, and women bring powerful insight to both. This nonprofit was created to build a collaborative ecosystem where women can elevate their influence through education, mentorship, and meaningful professional connection." The organization's focus on cross-disciplinary collaboration indicates that it will bridge gaps between clinical practice, research, and industry, potentially accelerating the translation of scientific discoveries into bedside care. This could lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes for patients with chronic wounds, a growing concern given aging populations and rising rates of diabetes and obesity.
WIWC is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable foundation founded in 2026 by Dawn Shepherd, Dr. Cyaandi Dove, and Dr. Christine Grogan. It is seeking funding from individuals and organizations interested in supporting education for its members, including wound care curriculum, scholarships, or other grants. Nova Medical LLC and Kent Imaging have already provided support, hoping that other industry members will follow suit. Such backing is crucial for sustaining the nonprofit's educational and mentorship initiatives, which could include developing specialized training programs, funding research grants, and facilitating networking events. For more information or to donate, visit www.womeninwoundcare.org.
The implications of WIWC's launch extend beyond individual careers. By elevating women in wound care science, the organization could help diversify leadership, leading to more inclusive decision-making and research agendas that reflect the needs of all patients. Moreover, its emphasis on mentorship and sponsorship can create a pipeline of talented women who will drive future innovations. As the wound care field continues to evolve with new technologies and therapies, having a diverse workforce is essential for addressing complex challenges. WIWC's efforts to connect, educate, and mentor women will likely contribute to a stronger, more dynamic wound care community that is better equipped to improve patient lives.
