January 2025 – Susan Megas
“I attended my first DFSWM GALA last April and loved learning about how the women who are up against so many obstacles are making their dreams come true for themselves and their families.
There is nothing better than that.”
Meet Susan Megas – Lifelong Nurse, Mentor & Advocate for Women’s Empowerment
Born and raised in New Jersey, Susan dedicated 49 years to a career in nursing. She began at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. For her final 28 years, she worked at Baystate Medical Center, where she led an interdisciplinary evaluation program. This program focused on older adults with memory loss and cognitive changes.
“I love helping people, have a problem-solving attitude, and embrace diverse cultures. I respect the differences and perspectives and seek common ground as a means to connect. And I believe that age is mind over matter…at 60 years old I returned to school and received my doctorate in nursing from Vanderbilt University. I like challenges. I like making connections with people/agencies for their insights and resources.”
After retiring in 2022, [Name] sought a new way to make a difference—something focused on supporting women. Jane Albert, an advisory board member, invited her to lunch with former Executive Director Margaret. That meeting introduced her to Dress for Success Western Massachusetts (DFSWM). She was impressed by the organization’s success in helping women find their path through education and employment.
“I was asked if I would like to mentor women considering a career in health care. Absolutely! And that’s when I met my mentee Nasira whose ultimate goal is to become a nurse.”
Today, Susan is a volunteer mentor at DFSWM. She draws on her decades of healthcare experience to support women interested in nursing and related fields.
“I’m motivated by a desire to help, to be a part of an organization that knows how to be successful and can deliver on their mission. I’m looking forward to helping DFSWM women reach their goals, whatever they are.”