Drs. Eggers and Rankin named Women of Impact
The Department of Physiology faculty members are two of five Women of Impact named by University of Arizona Health Sciences
Erika Eggers, PhD
Five faculty members from the University of Arizona Health Sciences received University of Arizona Women of Impact Awards from the office of Research, Innovation and Impact, two of whom are members of the Department of Physiology. Erika Eggers, PhD, associate department head for research and professor of physiology, and Lucinda (Cindy) Rankin, PhD, associate professor and director of the Physiology Honors Academy, were both recognized by UAHS and RII.
“The University of Arizona Health Sciences is proud to see so many deserving faculty and staff recognized with this award,” said Michael D. Dake, MD, senior vice president for Health Sciences. “These remarkable women exemplify the groundbreaking research and forward-thinking innovation happening every day on our campuses, as well as the commitment to empowering the next generation of health care providers to reach its fullest potential.”
Each year, RII solicits nominations from across the university for the award, ultimately selecting the “remarkable faculty and staff who have each contributed significantly to our identity as a world-class research enterprise,” as stated on its website. Awardees are selected based on their commitment to the University of Arizona's purpose, mission and values; their unique skills in driving discovery and innovation; and their community impact and willingness to empower others.
Lucinda (Cindy) Rankin, PhD
Members of the 2024 judging panel included five former awardees and a member of the U of A senior leadership team. About 100 women were nominated this year.
“It is a great honor to be recognized among so many accomplished women,” said Dr. Eggers. “Being recognized as having a positive impact on the University of Arizona is very motivating for the times when research difficulties present themselves, as they always do.”
“I have to say that teaching and mentoring students across all levels over the years has been an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding journey,” said Dr. Rankin. “Whether it be sharing the awe-inspiring world of how the body works with novices or helping a physiology student find and prepare for a best-fit career, this work keeps me on my toes and keeps me connected with an amazing array of people across the U of A and Southern Arizona communities.”
Read more about the award and the other winners on the UAHS website.