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A Reflection from IGCS CEO, Mary Eiken

What does it mean to belong to the International Gynecologic Cancer Society? Who are we today, and where are we headed?

These are the questions I’ve been reflecting on—not only as CEO, but as someone who has had the privilege of working alongside countless clinicians, advocates, and global health champions who have built IGCS into what it is today. A global society that leverages its strategic pillars to continue to drive change. To help inform this reflection, I recently turned to our Board of Directors and staff and asked them to share their perspectives on the IGCS identity—what sets us apart, what inspires them, and what they believe our role should be in the future of gynecologic oncology.

Their responses were honest, passionate, and deeply unifying. One theme came through loud and clear: IGCS is operating at its best when our members—are empowered, connected, and leading the way.

A Society Rooted in Global Connection 

One theme emerged loud and clear: IGCS is a truly global society—not just in name, but in action. 

"IGCS is the only truly global organization in the field of gynecologic cancers." 

With members in over 130 countries, our reach spans continents and cultures. What sets us apart is our commitment to equity—delivering education, mentorship, and resources to professionals in both high- and low-resource settings. As one board member put it: 

"Education for young doctors and a global perspective that does not focus solely on advanced countries." 

IGCS strives to be as inclusive as possible. From rotating our Annual Global Meeting across regions, to tailoring training programs like the Gynecologic Oncology Global Fellowship Program and monthly regional Project ECHO® virtual tumor board sessions, IGCS listens to what its members need and responds with purpose. Our most recent member benefit, multilingual closed captions available on Education360 Learning Portal is a testament to our commitment. 

A Home for Mentorship, Growth, and Purpose 

Many board members reflected on how they were first introduced to IGCS—often through a mentor, or a desire to grow professionally—and how that connection has deepened over time. 

"I was able to meet colleagues from various countries around the world. Meeting IGCS and its colleagues motivated me to save patients from a global perspective. I have grown even more as a gynecologic oncologist." 

Our members stay because IGCS is a home—a place where professional identity is not only supported, but shaped and strengthened. It’s a society where early-career clinicians find mentorship, where established leaders give back, and where friendships evolve into lifelong collaborations. 

What IGCS Looks Like at Its Best

When asked what IGCS looks like when it’s operating at its best, the answers were as inspiring as they were consistent: a connected, vibrant, collaborative, and transformative global community.

“When IGCS is at its best, its impact is being felt simultaneously in multiple locations across the globe.”

“It should be a home—a place where your professional identity is determined and strengthened.”

“IGCS is a truly inclusive society that welcomes, connects, mentors, educates, advocates, and brings about positive change.”

That’s a powerful image—and one we strive to live up to every day.

The Heart of IGCS, in Their Words

We also asked our Board of Directors and staff to describe the tone and feeling they associate with IGCS. The words they shared tell the story of a society rooted in compassion, driven by purpose, and united by a bold, collective vision for change.

When grouped together, these words reveal four deeply interconnected themes that define who we are:

Compassion & Support – We lead with empathy, kindness, and connection.

Inclusivity & Equity – We welcome all voices and work to level the global playing field.

Collaboration & Community – We thrive on shared strength and mutual respect.

Inspiration & Innovation – We push boundaries, nurture ideas, and believe in the power of progress.

This is how your leadership team experiences IGCS—and how they want the world to experience it too. These aren’t just words. They’re touchstones for the culture we’ve built and the future we are shaping together. 

A Path Forward, Together 

We also asked our Board who they would introduce to IGCS. Their answers affirmed our mission: early-career professionals in under-resourced settings, retiring clinicians eager to give back, and multidisciplinary colleagues who haven’t yet found a home in a global network like ours. 

“The talented young gynecologist working in rural Africa, Asia, or Latin America striving to make a difference.” 

“The professor who wants to expand their educational impact beyond borders.” 

“The oncologist nearing retirement who wants to give back.” 

“Key members of the broader multidisciplinary team—such as pathology, radiation oncologists or nurses—who may not yet be deeply involved with IGCS but must feel welcomed.” 

These are the people we serve—and the people who will carry IGCS into the future. 

What This Means for You 

If you’re already part of our community, I hope this gives you a sense of how invested our leadership is in strengthening and evolving IGCS. Your board is not only engaged—they are actively shaping the future of this organization with intention, insight, and a deep respect for our collective mission. 

If you’re not yet a member, I hope you’ll consider joining us. There is a place for you here—whether you're a trainee in need of guidance, a researcher with global aspirations, a nurse on the front lines, or a thought leader seeking change. 

Together, we are building something remarkable.