In 2007, Martha Samuelson visited Boston Medical Center (BMC) for the first time. The then-CEO, Elaine Ullian, invited her to witness the groundbreaking work being done there. Samuelson was amazed by what she saw—the need for access to medications and advanced surgical tools. It opened her eyes to the idea of healthcare as a matter of social justice.
This initial tour marked the beginning of a remarkable two-decade journey for Samuelson at BMC. Soon after, she and her husband began supporting the hospital financially. By 2008, she was on the BMC Board of Trustees and became its chair in 2016. Under her guidance, BMC has continued to advance its mission.
This year, BMC is celebrating Samuelson at its annual fundraising event, BMC Seasons. The event will also honor Takeda, a partner in sustainability, and Richard Slifka, a former board member devoted to multiple sclerosis awareness.
Samuelson is part of a network of strong women in healthcare. Women often make most healthcare decisions for their families, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles, especially as CEOs. Ullian was among the few breaking that barrier when she led BMC from 1996 to 2010. Samuelson played a role in hiring Ullian’s successor, Kate Walsh, who took over in 2010 and furthered the commitment to female leadership in the organization.
Walsh expressed her gratitude for Samuelson’s guidance and friendship, highlighting her unique blend of intelligence and kindness. This enduring bond illustrates the value of female alliances in a historically male-dominated field.
Nursing is another critical area where Samuelson has made a substantial impact. Her connection with Nancy Gaden, the Chief Nursing Officer at BMC, led Samuelson to establish the Nursing Research and Clinical Innovation Fund in 2023. This fund supports important research and innovation in nursing, emphasizing the role of nurses in healthcare.
“Martha cares deeply about people, and it shines through in her leadership,” Gaden said. This commitment is evident in BMC’s ongoing initiatives, particularly during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, BMC faced significant challenges, particularly in serving its vulnerable patient population. Samuelson found purpose in advising hospital leadership as they navigated unprecedented decisions. With her experience, she offered insights into fairness in care allocation and access to vaccines in underserved communities.
“Martha’s passion and presence inspired us all during COVID,” Gaden noted, reflecting the value of her leadership through trying times.
The efforts BMC made to ensure equitable vaccine access in communities like Mattapan and Roxbury were vital in addressing health disparities that worsened during the pandemic. Samuelson’s guidance ensured that BMC remained focused on supporting its community.
As she looks back now, Samuelson is reflective. She believes in building sustainable institutions and making decisions that have long-term benefits rather than focusing on her legacy. While there’s still a significant gender gap in healthcare leadership, the actions of women like Samuelson and her peers are paving the way for future generations.
Their impact over the past three decades at BMC is evident, illuminating a path for the women who will follow in their footsteps. The importance of strong female leaders in health care is not just about individual achievements but about creating a lasting change for those who come next.
For an in-depth look at these developments in women’s leadership in healthcare, visit The American Hospital Association.
