Jun 3, 2026
MASS AWIS was thrilled to kick off our 2026 Book Club series with an inspiring virtual discussion featuring Dr. Marlene Belfort, distinguished molecular biologist, author, and advocate for women in science. Members across career stages joined for a thoughtful conversation centered on her memoir Mommy, Can Boys Be Doctors?, a candid exploration of her scientific journey, personal challenges, and the evolving landscape for women in STEM.
Opening Remarks & Introduction
The event opened with a warm welcome from Pamela Klecki, MASS AWIS Vice President, who introduced Dr. Belfort and guided attendees through the memoir's key themes. Pamela highlighted pivotal moments in Dr. Belfort’s life and career, using a curated slide deck to frame the discussion around resilience, identity, mentorship, and the realities of navigating academia as a woman scientist.
Her introduction set a reflective tone and underscored how closely Dr. Belfort’s story aligns with AWIS's mission.
Highlights from the Conversation
The discussion touched on several themes that resonated strongly with attendees.
Female solidarity and navigating toxic environments
Participants explored the importance of women supporting one another in scientific spaces. Dr. Belfort spoke openly about periods when institutional pressures strained that solidarity, prompting a broader discussion about how academic structures can unintentionally foster competition rather than community.
Why women leave science & what helps them stay
Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Belfort reflected on patterns she has observed in women's attrition from STEM. The group discussed structural barriers, personal turning points, and the types of support, including mentorship, flexibility, and community, that help women persist.
Vulnerability as a strength in scientific storytelling
Pamela guided the conversation through key stages of the memoir, highlighting Dr. Belfort’s openness about setbacks, self‑doubt, and personal growth. Attendees resonated with the idea that vulnerability can strengthen scientific communities and mentorship relationships.
Memorable Quotes from Dr. Marlene Belfort
Throughout the discussion, Dr. Belfort shared reflections that resonated deeply with attendees. A few of the many moments that stood out:
“The title of the book arose when one of my grandchildren asked, ‘Mommy, can boys also be doctors?’ It struck such a chord with me because when I was growing up, the doctors were all guys.”
“Most scientific careers don’t move in a straight line. They proceed in fits and starts. The impression that someone just ‘went linearly to the top’ is almost never true.”
“I was a better scientist because I was a mom. I didn’t obsess about all the failures. And I was a better mom because I was a scientist.”
“There was so much guilt of not enough time in the lab, not enough time with my children. But the very things I thought would be damaging actually turned out to be positive influences.”
“It wasn’t a smooth path. I suffered from being an immigrant, from discrimination, from mental illness. But being resilient and getting back on track is what got me to where I am today.”
These reflections added depth and authenticity to the conversation, offering encouragement to early‑career scientists navigating their own journeys and made the coversation so impactful.
Resources Highlighted During the Event
Dr. Belfort shared several organizations and initiatives that support mental health, equity, and community for women in STEM.
Dragonfly Mental Health
A global nonprofit working to transform mental‑health culture in academia through research, evidence‑based consulting, and supportive networking spaces like Dragonfly Café. Their programs address institutional barriers, stigma, and the unique pressures faced by scientists and trainees.
WISH (Women in Science and Health)
A mission‑driven community dedicated to reclaiming, restoring, and reimagining what’s possible for women in science and healthcare. WISH envisions a future where women in medicine, science, and health are fully equipped, boldly represented, and powerfully united in shaping the systems that shape them.
Project SAGES (NSF ADVANCE Archival Resource)
An NSF‑funded initiative focused on advancing gender equity in STEM through institutional transformation. Although the program has concluded, it remains a strong example of how ADVANCE projects can drive structural change. Dr. Belfort encouraged attendees to stay alert for similar opportunities as new programs continue to emerge.
Event Atmosphere & Engagement
The book club fostered a warm, supportive environment where attendees felt comfortable sharing their own experiences. Even participants who had not finished the book were able to engage meaningfully, thanks to the accessible themes and Dr. Belfort’s generous storytelling. The intimate group size allowed for thoughtful exchanges and personal reflections.
As one participant noted in the chat: “This is great — thanks!”
Recording & Additional Materials
🎥 Event Recording Available Here (Passcode if Needed is: +eDgE4cx)
🌐 Personal Website of Dr. Belfort
🔬 Podcast Interview with Dr. Belfort: https://asm.org/podcasts/mtm/episodes/unraveling-introns-and-expectations-with-marlene-b
📑 Pamela’s introductory slide deck
Closing Thoughts
MASS AWIS extends our sincere thanks to Dr. Marlene Belfort for her time, insight, and openness, and to all attendees for contributing to a thoughtful and energizing discussion. We are excited to continue building our Book Club series, welcoming more authors and scientists to future discussions, and creating spaces where women in science can learn, reflect, and connect.
Stay Connected With MASS AWIS
We invite you to stay engaged with our community and join us for future events, book clubs, seminars, and networking opportunities that support and uplift women in STEM.
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