Women's History Month
March is Women’s History Month, a month that we celebrate the countless women who have fought tirelessly and courageously for equality, justice, and opportunity. From Ruth Bader Ginsburg to local women in my own community, I look to celebrate some of the amazing women who helped shape a world where women can be leaders, CEOs, and presidents of an organization. I also think it is important to celebrate the women who have played a vital role in their communities whether as caregivers, educators, volunteers, or entrepreneurs. It’s shocking that not that long ago, a career like mine would have been nearly impossible. While women today still face discrimination and bias, we wouldn’t be where we are today without the women who paved the way.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a Supreme Court Justice and women’s rights advocate whom I greatly admired. She was the first in many positions in which she held. Ruth Bader Ginsburg fought tirelessly and is most known for the 5 Supreme Court cases that she won. These cases helped establish gender equality under the law. It was all about the way that she went about it, knowing her environment so well, that she brought cases where men were victims. She knew that an all-male supreme court would ‘appreciate’ the injustice for men. This laid the foundation to address the sexism women suffered. She was a brilliant woman with truly the creative tenacity for equality.
There are women much closer to me personally that inspired my desire and continued drive to be a great leader. Ellen Brothers, former CEO of American Girl, lead the organization from 2000 to 2012 demonstrating to me how smart, courageous, and kind women can lead an organization. Kathi Seifert, a retired Kimberly Clark executive, whose leadership journey was full of roadblocks but demonstrated how to navigate through those. Kathi Seifert was named to Fortune magazine’s list of Most Powerful Women in Business and I couldn’t agree more. She taught me the importance of creating and nurturing a network. My mom has inspired my journey to being a great leader every step of the way. Her confidence in me was much stronger than the confidence I had in myself. But she not only did this for me but for my brother and sisters as well. Lastly, all the strong, fearless women whom I have the privilege to work with today inspire me.
As we continue to celebrate the achievement of women throughout history, I also recognize the ongoing work that needs to be done. It is my mission to continue to create opportunities for women and celebrate their achievements, not just during Women’s History Month but throughout the year.