Women in Wound Care (WIWC) announced its launch as the first nonprofit organization built to elevate women in wound care science by creating a professional community where clinicians, researchers, scientists, and industry can advance the science of healing together. The announcement was made at the 2026 SAWC in Las Vegas. The organization is guided by a mission to CONNECT, Elevate, Educate, Mentor, Lead, and Innovate, with a focus on leadership development, mentorship and sponsorship, education and knowledge exchange, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and recognition—all centered on improving patient outcomes.
The launch matters because it addresses a gap in professional support for women in wound care, a field that demands both clinical excellence and innovation. By providing a dedicated community, WIWC aims to ensure women are not only seen but supported to lead, which could strengthen the science of healing and ultimately improve outcomes for patients. The nonprofit is seeking funding from anyone interested in supporting education for its members, including wound care curriculum, scholarships, or other grants. Nova Medical LLC and Kent Imaging have already supported the nonprofit, with hopes that other industry members will follow suit.
Founding member Dawn Shepherd (BSN, RN, CWCN, CFCN) said, “We created Women in Wound Care to ensure women across the wound care community are not only seen, but supported to lead. When we connect expertise with mentorship and opportunity, we strengthen the science of healing—and ultimately improve outcomes for patients who depend on us.” Dr. Christine Grogan, also a founding member, added, “Wound care requires both clinical excellence and innovation, and women bring powerful insight to both. This nonprofit was created to build a collaborative ecosystem where women can elevate their influence through education, mentorship, and meaningful professional connection.”
Women in Wound Care is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable foundation founded in 2026 by Dawn Shepherd (BSN, RN, CWCN, CFCN), Dr. Cyaandi Dove, and Dr. Christine Grogan. The organization’s mission is to elevate women in wound care science by creating a professional community where clinicians, researchers, scientists, and industry advance the science of healing together. Those interested in learning more or donating can visit www.womeninwoundcare.org.
The implications of this launch extend beyond individual career advancement. By fostering mentorship, education, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, WIWC could help bridge gaps in wound care research and practice, leading to more effective treatments and better patient care. As the first nonprofit of its kind, it sets a precedent for supporting women in a specialized medical field, potentially inspiring similar initiatives in other areas of healthcare. The involvement of industry supporters like Nova Medical LLC and Kent Imaging signals early confidence in the organization’s mission, but sustained funding will be crucial to its success.
