This August, faculty, residents, and students from the University of Iowa’s Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences joined peers from across the country at the annual Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) Summer Symposium. Held August 7–10, 2025, the conference brought together leaders, learners, and advocates committed to advancing equity, leadership, and innovation in the field. 

For Iowa participants, the gathering was more than just an academic meeting—it was a chance to exchange ideas, build networks, and celebrate the department’s strong tradition of leadership. “As a fourth-year medical student, attending the Women in Ophthalmology conference was an incredibly powerful experience,” shared Kristin Davis. “The meeting provided a unique opportunity to gain new skills, hear inspiring advice, and learn strategies for navigating the unique challenges women face as both physicians and leaders.” 

The symposium was filled with candid discussions about balancing demanding careers with family life, workshops on resilience and leadership, and inspiring personal stories from trailblazing women who continue to reshape ophthalmology. Attendees also benefited from mentorship opportunities and meaningful connections that underscored the supportive community fostered by WIO. 

The University of Iowa was especially well represented on the program. Erin Shriver, MD, FACS, delivered the prestigious Bernice Z. Brown Memorial Lecture after being selected as this year’s award recipient. In her talk, “Aspiring to Advance Ophthalmology Through Advocacy,” Dr. Shriver highlighted the vital role physicians play in shaping policy and advancing the profession.

 She also contributed to the research program, co-authoring a poster on ophthalmology representation in generative artificial intelligence models. Pavlina Kemp, MD, added to the momentum as a featured panelist in the Extraordinary Educators session, while also sharing her perspective with aspiring physicians during the Medical Student Lunch Program. Meanwhile, Alina Dumitrescu, MD, FACS, presented her cutting-edge work on gene-specific therapy for pediatric inherited eye disorders and collaborated on a case report poster presentation examining Blue Cone Monochromacy. 

For students like Davis, the visible presence of Iowa faculty, alumni, and trainees was deeply motivating. “It was humbling and inspiring to see how well represented the University of Iowa was at the conference,” she reflected. “I look forward to attending future WIOs and to watching Iowa’s current trainees continue to excel in ophthalmology for years to come.” 

With national recognition, award-winning scholarship, and a growing cohort of future leaders, the University of Iowa continues to help shape the future of ophthalmology—not only through clinical and scientific excellence, but also by championing the next generation of physicians.