Shining a spotlight on women at the MUHC – moving on to the Glen site!
On International Women’s Day, we want to share the inspiring stories of two women who work at the Glen site. Women account for more than 70 percent of the workforce at the MUHC and with so many remarkable women to highlight; we have turned this day into a week-long celebration.
Proud of women’s achievements in healthcare
Dr. Nadia Giannetti is a strong female leader. She is the Medical Director of the Heart Failure and Heart Transplant Program at the MUHC and the Associate Physician-in-Chief for the Department of Medicine, as well as former Chief of the Division of Cardiology. Along with her team, Dr. Giannetti cares for over 1,000 patients with heart failure. Despite her impressive credentials, Dr. Giannetti acknowledges that it hasn’t always been easy for women to break down stereotypes, in particular in industries that have often been perceived as male dominated. “I feel fortunate to work in an environment at the MUHC where women are treated as equal partners and where there are many strong female leaders. I thank my predecessors who paved the way for this,” she says.
Dr. Giannetti was inspired to work in healthcare by her mother — a hospital-based laboratory technician. “My mother truly loved being a part of the healthcare effort. International Women’s Day acknowledges all the great women who broke down barriers but should also serve as a reminder that more work is needed locally and internationally.”
Infinite opportunities for women
Julie Lebel is manager with the Courtois Cardiovascular Signature Program at the MUHC. She considers working in healthcare a privilege. “I’ve always known I wanted to work in health. As a woman, I think I have the drive, the heart and the energy to make a difference,” says Julie. “I get to be part of something big, a game changer.”
Julie says International Women’s Day represents a global journey and showcases what women have accomplished and what opportunities lie ahead.
She describes herself as positive, focused and dedicated. Martial arts is an important outlet for Julie who obtained her black belt in Karate in 2021. “It is one of my greatest inspirations for determination. Anything that you put into your heart and mind can become reality,” she says.
Our series continues Wednesday with a look at the dynamic women who are proud to be a part of the team at the Montreal Children's Hospital.