Dedicated to

Enhancing opportunities for women in scleroderma

WINS Program Goals

Our nonprofit provides mentoring, training, networking and funding to talented women researchers and clinicians specializing in scleroderma. We aim to boost female representation in leadership roles and ensure women have the support they need to excel in careers studying and treating this serious rheumatic disease.

Women in Scleroderma (WINS) is the only international network

Providing professional growth opportunities for women in scleroderma through networking, coaching, and skill-building programs.

WINS was founded in 2023 by Dr. Elizabeth Volkmann and Dr. Carol Feghali-Bostwick to promote gender equity in the field of scleroderma and empower women who care for patients with scleroderma and conduct research in this area.

women mentoring

250

members

Dedicated women researchers and clinicians in scleroderma

30

countries

Women working collaboratively from across the globe

20

coaches

Experienced coaches available to guide you on your journey

Comprehensive Services

We are here to help you achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams. There is no limit to what women can accomplish when they work together.

Webinar Series

Stay informed on topics and challenges that uniquely affect women pursuing careers in scleroderma 

Coaching Program

Discover personalized coaching to advance your career development and realize your dreams

Sounding Board

Connect with other women to discuss confidential matters and receive support, advice, and care

Online Resources

Access a curated list of inspiring literary and film resources by signing up to receive our WINS Newsletter

Connection

Connect with women around the world who share your passion for scleroderma through joining the WINS community 

Contact Us

Share your thoughts and feedback with our team- We are here to listen and learn how we can grow and support each other

Support career growth for researchers, clinicians and leaders

The career development programs at Women in Scleroderma help women evolve as researchers and clinicians. Our programs support the career development of women from diverse disciplines, including rheumatology, pulmonary medicine, dermatology, and primary care.

We connect women scientists with experienced mentors to guide them through establishing their own labs. Our research career development pathways foster collaborations with other investigators to improve the clinical translation of their laboratory discoveries.

We provide women the tools and resources that they need to establish Scleroderma Centers to improve access to care for patients with scleroderma living around the world. 

woman researcher
Antonia Valenzuela Vergara

Rheumatologist

I am a Chilean rheumatologist and Assistant Professor at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. My research focuses on understanding and addressing calcinosis, a challenging manifestation of scleroderma. With the support of the WINS network, I am establishing the first scleroderma center in my country. 

group of women
Sabrina Hoa
Rheumatologist

I am dedicated to improving the quality of life and survival of people living with scleroderma. I have established a scleroderma clinic in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. I think WINS is a wonderful initiative to bring together a community of investigators with similar interests and to create a space to share and support each other. 

woman clinician
DeAnna Baker-Frost

Rheumatologist

I am an Assistant Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina. I seek to understand the relationship between estrogen and scleroderma, with a career goal of participating in research to improve the lives of patients. I appreciate the collaborations and mentorship that I have received through WINS and hope to encourage young physicians to enter rheumatology and scleroderma research.

group of clinician
Chiara Bellocchi

Rheumatologist

I am a clinical immunologist and a research Assistant Professor at the University of Milan. I am interested in defining molecular phenotypes of the preclinical stage of systemic sclerosis to discover new treatments targets. I now have a WINS Coach who has introduced me to unique opportunities for women researchers in Europe.