Empowering Women in Healthcare: Pacira’s POWER Program

The POWER program began with a vision from Kristen Williams, our Chief Administrative Officer and Secretary, who recognized the need for a structured initiative to support and uplift women across all departments. Initially, POWER was small, but over time, it has evolved into a more structured program with subcommittees, volunteer-driven leadership, and a diverse range of programming, all aligned with Pacira’s dedication to treating our people well and fostering a supportive, equitable work environment.

Today, POWER offers programming to employees of all genders, while also curating exclusive opportunities for women. This ensures an inclusive environment where women at Pacira can connect, learn, and grow in a space that champions professional development and other ways that extend beyond the workplace.

Networking and mentorship form the cornerstone of POWER’s mission. Their annual retreat has proven to be one of the most valuable experiences, bringing together women from different locations and departments to forge meaningful relationships. These connections are not just social—they are instrumental in career development, offering guidance, support, and inspiration from women who have navigated similar professional paths.

Beyond internal growth, POWER also extends its reach into the community. Our outreach initiatives have made a tangible difference in local communities. One of the flagship initiatives is the Giving Tree during the holiday season, where Pacira employees donate gifts to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an organization that supports local foster children. Over the years, this initiative has grown significantly, reinforcing our mission of supporting families impacted by opioid dependency and other challenges.

Last year, we launched ‘Powering Our Communities,’ a volunteer initiative that mobilized Pacira employees across locations to participate in service projects. Employees in New Jersey volunteered at a community food bank, while those in California packed lunches and backpacks for children in need. These efforts have not only helped communities but have strengthened the bonds between employees who share a passion for giving back.

As leaders at Pacira, we recognize that being in a traditionally male-dominated industry comes with unique challenges. POWER provides a space where these challenges can be openly discussed, and solutions can be developed collaboratively.

The ability to network and find mentors has been crucial. Unless you can create a network and find allies, mentors, and promoters, it’s difficult to advance in any organization. POWER ensures that women at Pacira have these resources readily available, fostering an environment where leadership is not just an aspiration, but an achievable goal. POWER also helps women find pathways to success while maintaining a strong work-life balance. Pacira is not just a place where women can work, but it’s a place where they can thrive.

A key takeaway from Women’s History Month is the importance of self-advocacy. Women must speak up for themselves in all aspects of life, particularly when it comes to health. We so often hear about women feeling uncomfortable advocating for themselves.

Pacira’s commitment to patients at the center underscores this message: women deserve to be heard, treated with dignity, and given access to the healthcare they need. Equally important is the balance between professional ambition and personal well-being. Women often juggle multiple responsibilities, and finding a workplace that supports this balance is crucial.

This year, POWER aims to continue to expand its reach and impact. We are looking for ways to better include Pacira’s field teams and extend initiatives beyond the core office locations. Our goal is to ensure that all women at Pacira, regardless of their role or location, have access to mentorship, support, and opportunities to grow. As the program evolves, one thing remains clear: Pacira is committed to fostering a workplace where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and make a difference.

By investing in mentorship, professional growth, and social responsibility, we are ensuring that women have the resources they need to succeed—not just during Women’s History Month, but every day of the year. And as we continue to put patients at the center, follow the science, and treat our people well, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more equitable future for all.

A special thank you to Kristen Williams and Lauren Riker, our SVP of Finance, for their exceptional leadership and unwavering sponsorship and support of the POWER program and its vital initiatives. Their commitment is instrumental in fostering an empowering environment for women at Pacira.