Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer to Host Leadership Institute Focusing on Professional Development of Women in Cancer Immunotherapy

MILWAUKEE, Jan. 28, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is pleased to announce the return of a successful initiative focused on women in the field. The Women in Cancer Immunotherapy Network (WIN) Leadership Institute returns this summer, and will grow to two programs, in Seattle (July 13–14) and Chicago (Aug. 3–4). The one-and-a-half day programs celebrate and empower emerging women leaders in the cancer immunotherapy field.

The WIN Leadership Institute provides a forum for women scientists and clinicians to network with accomplished investigators in the field while exploring topics particularly relevant to them in the workplace, including negotiation techniques, breaking through the glass ceiling, conflict resolution strategies and public speaking. The programs, which include an application process, will be free for accepted applicants to attend. Applicants will be selected to attend one of the two locations being offered this summer.

"As a society, we are committed to advancing the best science and promote the best outcomes for patients, so we have a responsibility and obligation to further the careers and promote to leadership positions the best and brightest in our profession." said SITC President Mario Sznol, MD. "In 2019, there was an overwhelming number of applicants for this program – more than three times that of the available positions, underscoring the demand for this type of training opportunity. SITC is proud to offer this program for women as part of an overall effort to continue developing future leaders in cancer immunotherapy."

Championed by SITC Immediate Past President Lisa H. Butterfield, PhD, the Women in Cancer Immunotherapy Network (WIN) is a SITC initiative launched in 2017 that has included annual receptions celebrating women in cancer immunotherapy. The discussions at these receptions have identified strategies to elevate the status of women, both within the society through general leadership roles and faculty opportunities, as well as the field in general.

"During my term as our society's first female President, one of my primary goals was giving prominence to the contributions women have made, and continue to make, in cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology research. I remain passionate about this commitment," said Dr. Butterfield. "The level of demand by women in the field seeking professional development opportunities is substantial, and the Leadership Institute will feature timely presentations and group discussions on topics integral to the advancement of women working in the lab and the clinic to support the next generation of female leaders."

Women interested in applying for an opportunity to attend one of the WIN Leadership Institute programs are encouraged to submit an application by March 9 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

About SITC
Established in 1984, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is a nonprofit organization of medical professionals dedicated to improving cancer patient outcomes by advancing the development, science and application of cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology. SITC is comprised of influential basic and translational scientists, practitioners, health care professionals, government leaders and industry professionals around the globe. Through educational initiatives that foster scientific exchange and collaboration among leaders in the field, SITC aims to one day make the word "cure" a reality for cancer patients everywhere. Learn more about SITC, our educational offerings and other resources at http://www.sitcancer.org and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

SOURCE Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer