The Importance of Mentorship: Inspiration and Support

Christen M. Russo, MD

Ten years ago, I did not know the name Ruth Jackson or the society named after her. I was also unfamiliar with Jacquelin Perry and The Perry Initiative. Somehow, I found my way to orthopaedic surgery without a female mentor, albeit through a circuitous route. I spent my years of training, both residency and fellowship, working with fewer than 10 female orthopaedists—seven residents and two faculty members. I made it, though, so what’s the big deal?