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Video

Professional and Personal Development

(A1015) Leadership Trends Among American and Canadian Women in Otolaryngology Chairs: A 15-Year Analysis

Monday, October 13, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT
Location: OTO EXPO, Posters

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Raisa Chowdhury, MSc

    Medical Student
    McGill University
    Montreal, QC, Canada

    • Senior Author(s)

  • KK

    Karen M. Kost, MD

    Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Director of the Voice and Dysphagia Laboratory, McGill University
    McGill University
    Westmount, Quebec, Canada

Disclosure(s):
Karen M. Kost, MD: No relevant relationships to disclose.


Introduction: This study evaluates leadership trends among American and Canadian Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Chairs over 15 years, focusing on academic background, clinical expertise, leadership roles, scientific productivity, and professional contributions.

Methods: A retrospective review of 15 American and 3 Canadian WIO Chairs from 2010 to 2025 was conducted using publicly available data from AAO-HNS, institutional websites, PubMed, Google Scholar, and LinkedIn. Data were collected on medical education, residency and fellowship training, subspecialty expertise, practice setting, leadership roles, publications, h-index, research funding, awards, and involvement in humanitarian work. Descriptive statistics analyzed trends in practice settings, academic productivity, and leadership trajectories.

Results: A total of 18 WIO Chairs were identified. 83% (15/18) held positions in academic institutions, while 17% (3/18) had dual roles in private practice and academia. The average h-index was 18.5, with some Chairs publishing over 100 articles. 60% (11/18) received notable awards, including the Above and Beyond Award and Exceptional Women in Medicine recognition. All Chairs had held at least one leadership role before becoming WIO Chair, with program director and vice chair being the most common prior positions. 30% (5/18) had documented involvement in humanitarian initiatives. Research funding data were available for a subset of Chairs, with several securing major grants.

Conclusions: Women in Otolaryngology leadership roles have demonstrated strong academic productivity, consistent leadership progression, and significant professional recognition. The majority occupy academic positions, and prior leadership roles appear to be a common pathway to becoming a WIO Chair. The findings highlight the increasing visibility and contributions of women leaders in Otolaryngology and underscore the importance of mentorship and support networks to further enhance gender equity in leadership.