The ATS Women’s Forum is a highlight of the ATS International Conference, celebrating and supporting the advancement of women in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine.
For the first time in 2026, the Forum will feature a talk-show format, creating an engaging and conversational space where attendees can learn from panelists at different stages of their careers. The discussion will explore leadership, mentorship, innovation, and balance—offering diverse perspectives on personal and professional growth.
Meet the 2026 Panelists
Alexandra Noël, PhD, MSc, BSc
Associate Professor and Director of the Inhalation Research Facility at Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Noël’s research focuses on the pulmonary effects of environmental pollutants. She also serves as Chair of the ATS Membership Committee (2025–2026) and is a member of the NIH Advisory Committee on Research on Women’s Health
Annie Pardo, PhD
Distinguished Professor at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Pardo is a pioneer in biomedical research on fibrotic lung diseases and aging. She was the first non-U.S. woman to receive the ATS Recognition Award for Scientific Achievement and is a recipient of both Mexico’s National University Award and National Science Award
Dr. Kathleen Oare Lindell, PhD, RN, ATSF
Associate Professor and Mary Swain Endowed Chair in Palliative Care Health at the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Lindell’s work centers on improving care for patients with serious respiratory illness. She is the developer of A Program of SUPPORT™ for patients with Pulmonary Fibrosis and serves on the ATS Board of Directors
Mary B. Rice, MD, MPH
Mark and Catherine Winkler Associate Professor of Environmental Respiratory Health and Director of the Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment (C-CHANGE) at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Dr. Rice’s research explores the impact of air pollution and climate change on respiratory health. She also leads multiple NIH-funded programs and serves on the EPA’s Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee
Join us for this inspiring session during the ATS 2026 International Conference on Monday, May 18, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Together, we’ll celebrate women leading change in science, medicine, and global health. If you would like to contribute a question for our panelists, please use this form to share your ideas. We’ll review submissions and select a few to be featured during the session.
If you would like to contribute a question for our panelists, please use this form to share your ideas. We’ll review submissions and select a few to be featured during the session.
