Women’s History Month

Students share the most inspiring and influential women in their lives in honor of this month’s celebration.

by Kaleen Luu

March is recognized globally as Women’s History Month to commemorate the contributions and achievements of women.

The recognition began in 1978 as Women’s History Week and became internationally acknowledged after it evolved to a month of celebration.

Women’s History Month corresponds with International Women’s Day on March 8 to celebrate how women have succeeded in cultural, political and socioeconomic ways.

As an important focal point in conversation with the women’s rights movement, the declaration calls attention to ongoing issues such as reproductive rights and gender equality.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, students shared the most influential women in their lives and how their strength and tenacity has impacted them.

Christine Nguyen, Third Year Business Finance

My cousin Jenny.

“She was the first person in our family to be born in America after we fled Vietnam. As a result, she didn’t have much help or guidance from a role model that was also a first-generation child.

Jenny didn’t have a perfect life growing up and went through many hardships, but she was always resilient and optimistic while she pushed through these barriers.

Even from a young age, she’s always been my role model.

I’m glad to have someone like her in my life who could give me great life tips from her own experience. I would not be where I am right now if it weren’t for her advice and guidance.”

Shay Hashemi, Third Year Finance and Accounting

My grandma.

“Back before the revolution in Iran she owned one of the biggest plastic manufacturing plants in all of Iran.

After the Islamic revolution they seized her business simply because she was a woman.

She taught me many things about life. Most importantly, she showed me that the one thing no government, or anybody for that matter, can take away from you is your education.”

Rachel Borje, Second Year Math Education

My high school marine biology teacher, Mrs. Mackert.

“She’s a total badass and taught me about all the joys about being a teacher.

She had cancer during the last few years of her teaching career, but she never slacked on making awesome presentations and projects.

She’s one of the many reasons I want to be a teacher and just in general, a good person.”