[Phar26] Women’s History Month Spotlight: Dr. Sharon Eck-Birmingham - Doctor of Health Sciences

[Byrd, Kenley E]

Dear CPHS Community,
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are excited to spotlight Dr. Sharon Eck-Birmingham, a distinguished member of our Doctor of Health Sciences faculty.
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women throughout history. In honor of this month, CPHS Student Affairs will be highlighting inspiring women faculty from our programs who have made a lasting impact in healthcare, science, and education.


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📌 About Dr. Sharon Eck-Birmingham:

Associate Professor

Doctor of Health Sciences

💡 Q&A Highlight:

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in DHSc?
    I have always wanted to be a nurse—I can't recall ever considering anything else. My mother often reminded me how I used to care for my stuffed animals or line them up to "teach" a class. Nursing is more than a profession; it is my calling. It is an honor to serve as a nurse, and if asked, yes, I would do it all over again.

Q: Can you share a defining moment in your career?
    One story in my career was graduating with my doctorate from Yale University. Who would have thought a girl from Iowa would receive a full scholarship? But wait, there is more. Upon graduation, each class elected a representative to participate in various ceremonies, including presenting the "empty" diploma folders to, at that time, President Rick Levin.  That year, Yale awarded several honorary doctorates, and among the recipients was Julie Andrews—yes, the legendary singer and actress from The Sound of Music! My personal favorite. Attending the event where she was introduced was a surreal and unforgettable experience.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how did you overcome them?
      Challenges—whether from physicians, administrators, or systemic barriers—are inevitable. I have found that many of these challenges can be addressed by building relationships, getting to know individuals on a personal level, and identifying shared values, such as a commitment to excellence in patient care. Establishing common ground provides a strong foundation for productive conversations. I also strive to keep discussions open and explore any self-imposed barriers that might hinder collaboration.

Q: How has your work contributed to the advancement of science?
      One initiative I am especially proud of was a collaborative effort with two fellow nurses to secure a maternal-child health grant in Connecticut. Our goal was to improve access to prenatal care and maternal-infant health outcomes. The grant funded a comprehensive program at the Women’s Center at Yale New Haven Health System, including:

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A new evening prenatal care clinic
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Bilingual outreach workers
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A smoking cessation program
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A direct referral system in the Emergency Department for first prenatal visits
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HIV counseling and testing
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Childcare services during prenatal appointments

We meticulously tracked patient and family progress, but the real magic was in the collaboration. Nurses, physicians, midwives, social workers, chaplains, and support staff all worked together, driven by a shared passion for serving women and families in underserved communities. Over the years, the program significantly improved prenatal care access, reduced infant mortality, and lowered the rate of mother-to-child HIV transmission. It was a powerful reminder that teamwork and the use of evidence truly makes a difference.

Q: What advice would you give to students, especially women, pursuing careers?
      Find and join a professional organization whose mission resonates with you—then get involved! The colleagues you meet will become lifelong friends and invaluable sources of support and networking. The connections you build will enrich your career in ways you never imagined.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about working in education and mentoring students?
      The everyday conversations I have with our phenomenal DHSc students are incredibly rewarding. Their passion for their communities and their drive to make a difference inspire me every day.

Q: What does Women's History Month mean to you?
      For me, Women’s History Month is an opportunity to personally express gratitude to the amazing women in my life. I like to do this through handwritten notes or by taking them out for a special lunch with an ocean view.

Q: Is there a woman (past or present) who has inspired your career or life?
     Lifting women up is simple:

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Listen to them.
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Support them.
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Mentor them.
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Introduce them to others who share their passions.
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Engage them in meaningful discussions about work, life, faith, and community.

True empowerment comes from fostering connections and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in decision-making spaces.

Q: How do you balance your professional and personal life?
     I strive to make intentional choices that align with my values and priorities, though some weeks are certainly more successful than others. My priorities include educating DHSc students, serving my community, and staying active in my church. Currently, I serve on one national board, one local civic board, and the Vestry leadership team at my church.
      To maintain my physical well-being, I prioritize healthy eating (lots of seafood and greens), yoga, and walking several miles each week (by the ocean). Lastly, I’m constantly laughing and talking with my sisters and friends.

Q: What is one piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
    I wish someone had encouraged me earlier to contribute beyond my executive roles—specifically, to engage more deeply with my community and church. My career in large academic health centers (Iowa, Yale, UNC) was all-consuming, and I now recognize the value of broader service.

Q: What book, podcast, or resource would you recommend to students or professionals in your field?
Two suggestions:

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Consider pursuing your next level of academic education—it will expand your knowledge, challenge you, and inspire you to make a meaningful impact.
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Reach out to someone you admire in your field, even if they are outside your usual professional circle. Ask them open-ended questions about their career or expertise. You never know where the conversation might lead—it could result in valuable insights, a new mentor, or even a future collaboration.

Let’s celebrate Dr. Sharon Eck-Birmingham and the extraordinary women pioneering advancements in healthcare and science.


All the Best,
Office of Student Affairs | Campbell University | College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences


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