Ablaze: Renaissance

ABLAZE RENAISSANCE

SPRING 2023 ISSUE ONE

Table of Contents About Ablaze | Meet Our Staff

4

Letter from the Editor

6

Art of Science

8

The Burnout Woman

10

The Current State of Education

13

Brittany Faith, An Example of Exceptional Work Highlighted On UT’s 40 Under 40 List

16

To Be Woman

18

MGC & NPHC: See Growth Across UT’s Campus

20

The Art of a Breakup

22

Teodora Trifonova: The Power of International Voices in Journalism

24

The Rebirth of College Students

26

Sustainability Starts Local

28

Ask Ablaze

29

Greetings From Spain!

32

Crossword on Iconic Women Throughout History

34

Covers Photographed by Leigh Shields

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Ablaze

About

Ablaze magazine is a student-run women’s magazine on the campus of The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. We are inspired by the voices of the students, more specifically, of the multitude of voices that make up our campus. Ablaze is an adjective igniting vivid imagery of fire, passion, light and radiance. Those concepts serve as our inspiration for the magazine. With a name like Ablaze, you cannot help but feel a change in the air. A desire to break barriers and burn your mark on society, to say ‘I am here’.

Our mission is to bring the campus and Knoxville community both interesting and thought-provoking content on a range of topics. Since rebranding from Honey Magazine, we have been thankful to see our previous readers welcoming to the changes made as well as adopting new readers along the way. We hope that you will devour our first print publication in the same manner.

In our evolution, we have also acquired sponsorships from various groups and departments on campus. Our sponsors include the College of Communication and Information (CCI), the College of Journalism and Electronic Media and the College of Advertising and Public Relations. We would like to extend our gratitude for your support, as our magazine would not be as successful without you.

– From the Ablaze Staff

Content Department

Graphic Design Department

Back Row Left to Right: Ella Kelley, Madison Russell, Mattie Chase, Alexius Brunson, Ava Franzoy, Abby Madan

Pictured Left to Right: Kyla Kirby, Olivia Omer, Emma Thomas, Peyton Blumenfeld, Holly Sarah Liban, Sydney Barney, Kayleigh McGee, Sinit Tesfamariam, Taylor Pearson

Front Row Left to Right: McKenna Norris, Abigail Doehler, Sarah Grace Kennedy, Anna Eason, Lily Rutherford Not Pictured: Catherine Espejo, Christopher Pericolosi, Ella Stewart, Lily Davidson

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Meet our S ta ff Photography Department Pictured Left to Right: Maddingly Cotton, Madelyn Stone, Bailey Beller, Kevin Segovia Not Pictured: Grace Collier, Leigh Shields, Sophia Carter

Social Media Department Pictured Left to Right: Molly Nichols, Amari Mills, Reagan Wilson, Alison Price, Arnashia Gray, Macie Dillard, Yvonne Ratledge, Jerika Eduave, Jenisse Sanches Not Pictured: Denay Davis

Ad Sales Department Pictured Left to Right: Sydney Barney, Alexius Brunson, Ava Franzoy, Sydney Burzynski

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WELCOME TO THE

enaissance

Designed by Kayleigh McGee | Photography by Leigh Shields

T

he word renaissance is French for rebirth, a concept that evokes different thoughts and feelings for every individual. For some, it is representative of a well-known period of art history and human civilization. While for others, it serves as a transcendental idea, standing for a period of revival. For our magazine, in particular, we wished to combine the two – referencing classical history when comparing it to our modern world today through a reflective gaze.

Throughout this publication, we wanted to cover all the facets of renaissance, whether that includes an archetypal art-related story or a story with a more abstract connection such as the growth of diversity in fraternity and sorority life. All stories in this issue have the underlying theme of rebirth and renewal. When we started putting together this issue, we knew from the beginning that it should revolve around our rebrand. This issue marks a transitory period and serves as both a celebration and a physical representation of a new era. Also, for our society as a whole thus far, 2023 has served as a resurgence into the world post-COVID. It is astonishing to think about how less than a year ago, we were a completely different publication and within a completely different world. Although the rebrand process is officially complete, the process of evolution is ever-going and infinite. Each one of us grows and develops each day as humans. We wanted the magazine to manifest our growth as both a team and as individuals. As we continue the evolution of the magazine, we hope to embolden you. We want the content within these pages to inspire you to do some self-reflection and become your best self – whether that’s after a bit of tender love and care or as you are now.

Though this is our first issue, it is not our first year as a magazine. Ablaze magazine is a publication that despite its young age, has a rich history. History is important. One is often told not to look back rather than to pay attention to what’s to come. While I agree that one should not live entirely in the past, it is important to not completely forget about it either. However, as with everything in life, all things should be in moderation. Only when we take a moment to look back, to reflect on how far we have come, as individuals, as a magazine and as a society are we able to understand why our present is the way it is. Our pasts, whether good or bad, shape who we are today – physically, mentally and emotionally.

When I reflect upon the magazine creation process and what our staff has achieved in a few months, it makes me hopeful that if we unite together, we can incite more positive change in our community. Using our voices and our content, we strive for Ablaze magazine to evoke thought and kindle conversation. Remember all it takes is a spark. From crucial conversations of human rights and equality to environmentalism, our society and world-at-large have more to do. Nevertheless, I remain optimistic that change is on the horizon.

Furthermore, I would like to extend my gratitude to the inspiring and incredibly hardworking staff at Ablaze for spending their semester making sure our ideas came to life. It is motivating to peruse the pages of this issue and see a whole magazine that, I hope, marks the beginning of a long history. We hope you enjoy reading the magazine as much as we did making it.

Sydney Burzynski

6 | Ablaze

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Art of Science The evolving world of women in STEM Written by Mattie Chase Designed by Olivia Omer | Photography by Bailey Beller Science and art seem to be two entirely separate categories, but STEM is not as simple as its acronym: science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The world of STEM encompasses growth and advancement. Both art and science require creativity in replicating the world in an effort to gain knowledge. So, why is a subject that requires a myriad of perspectives historically male-dominated?

Dr. Cheryl Kojima, an associate professor in the department of animal science, has been part of the research world since the early ’90s. She has always been drawn to science and physiology, but the support of her father, husband and the UT department heads has helped her succeed in this field.

Dr. Kojima recalled that when she was in graduate research in 1993, there were no women faculty at the University of Missouri.

“In fact, counting all eight of my graduate and undergraduate years, I never had a female instructor for any class besides English, Human Sexuality and Biological Basis of Sex Differences,” Dr. Kojima said.

Models: Emersen Head, Milan Garner It was common for people to walk into her office asking to see Dr. Kojima, assuming she was his secretary. This prejudice didn’t stop her but fueled her fire. Her love of the art of science and her support system helped her balance her career and family needs.

“Seeing natural processes at the cellular or molecular level is art to me. Watching technology unfold that allows more and more creative expression for everyone is exciting as well,” Dr. Kojima said.

Dr. Kojima is now a mentor to many students including graduate student of the animal sciences program Allyson Stokes. Focuing on reproductive physiology and genomics, Stokes said Dr. Kojima played an “instrumental role” in her success and was the first person that guided her back to the field.

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Stokes’ struggles made her choose a career in STEM. She was told by several doctors she could not have a child naturally, but successfully brought her son into the world in 2017.

“My mom always told me I didn’t do well when people told me I couldn’t do something. Too many women hear the words ‘you can’t do this’ and I want to be involved in changing that,” Stokes said.

The start of her journey was not easy. Stokes quit her previous job to start her research, which led to doubt from others, especially on how she could still be a “good mom.”

Stokes recalls that even the people closest to her could not imagine her being successful in her education while caring for her son. On the other hand, Stokes’ husband never encountered questions of whether he could be a good father while he pursued his dreams.

“It was upsetting to still experience this antiquated idea that a woman’s role should center around motherhood, but I didn’t let it interfere with my plans. I shifted my mindset, made some adjustments in my relationships and kept going,” Stokes said.

Currently, her research focuses on in vitro production to produce embryos in a laboratory setting. This process illustrates the connection between the beginning stages of life and connecting it back to natural processes in animals. Each step has to be perfect to achieve a successful pregnancy.

“Science and art come together in moments like this, and I think that’s really beautiful,” Stokes said.

The Harvard Gazette reports that the representation of women in STEM has increased from 8% to 27% since the 1970s.

This means that an overwhelming 73% of the workforce is men, but each year more women join this field and we could soon reach equilibrium.

“I think the world of STEM is becoming a more popular place to be … It’s being introduced to kids as early as preschool,” Stokes said.

At UT, both Stokes and Dr. Kojima recommend finding women faculty as mentors and visiting the Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration to navigate career options and compete in the field. There are resources and experiences available for women to find their place and pursue their dream, and UT is part of that.

“I feel like I’ve gotten to experience a wide variety of opportunities in STEM over the past 20 years, and I know those are expanding even more for current and future generations,” Stokes said.

By expanding these opportunities, women can thrive in STEM and create a diverse, enhanced world. Motivating women to develop early science skills will bring about future opportunities for them.

“Being a woman and a mother in STEM is not only empowering for me personally, but I hope my experiences can provide similar feelings of encouragement and support that I’ve been fortunate to have along my journey,” Stokes said.

This, in and of itself, is the art of science.

Renaissance | 9

The Burnout Woman

Three Easy Steps for Avoiding Burnout Written by Christopher Pericolosi Designed by Holly Sarah Liban | Photography by Leigh Shields

D

ear burnt-out woman, is life getting stressful? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you wish you could manage your passion for life, work and love better?

First, understand that you are not alone. Many women who are passionate tend to throw themselves into their work, lives and loves with unsolicited abandon.

Second, know that there are resources available to the burnt-out woman that will help you through the trying maelstrom that is life. Women as far back as ancient Greece—and before—have all experienced this phenomenon.

Here are three easy steps to avoid this and will enable you to renew your body, soul and spirit.

Step 1: Know yourself and your emotions.

You live in your body and are acutely aware of its feelings. Trust in them and don’t be afraid to experience the emotions. By experiencing these emotions, it allows your body and mind to align with your spirit and will be far easier to manage.

“When the body is flooded with positive or negative hormones, it takes up to ten minutes for them to calm down, during which your body processes them. During this process, your body and mind can and usually do feel as though you’re on this wild roller coaster. Don’t be afraid of this, it is the body’s natural way of dealing with the hormone cortisol, which regulates stress,” Dr. Nancy Chadwell, a psychology professor at Pellissippi State Community College, said.

Just remember, burnt-out woman, that you are unique, and your body will respond uniquely to the different types of stress it encounters. Now that we understand the importance of processing and accepting your emotions, let’s look at how a renewal of the mind can help this process as well.

Just remember, burnt-ou that you are unique, and will respond uniquely to types of stress it encounte

10 | Ablaze

ut woman, d your body o the different ers.

Models: Jen Martinez, Lily Davidson, Madison Russell, Maya Hooey, Sherleen Mwaura, Sydney Burzynski Step 2: Renew your mind with literature and poetry.

One of the most important things you can do, burnt-out woman, is escape into a world that is different from the one you live in.

Sappho, an ancient Greek poet, wrote lyrical poetry. This is a specific type of poetry that has a musical type of rhythm and often expresses romantic feelings or thoughts.

Dr. Jessica Westerhold, a professor of classical studies at UT, explained her thoughts on poetry and literature.

“Poetry of any kind should be open to interpretation. You should allow flexibility in reading and interpreting the words to fit your situation,” Dr. Westerhold said.

Sappho’s “Ode #31” relates that Sappho is lost in a sea of emotions, having become overwhelmed with the intensity of her passion.

This is easily applied to love, but can also include life in general or simply your work. When we become so enthralled and consumed with the drive to succeed at everything we do—and let’s face it, we are a competitive species—it is easy to lose yourself in those things.

However much we tend to lose ourselves in the things that matter to us most, step three is the most important of all.

Step 3: Surround yourself with others who share your ideals and renew your spirit.

The biggest key to success and not allowing burnout is to distance yourself from the problem area or areas and seek out moral support from others who share your mindset and ideas.

“For me, removing myself from the situation is the biggest step in avoiding burnout. I will often leave my house, office or wherever I am and take a walk, hike or some other type of leisure activity.

This is extremely helpful in restoring a sense of equilibrium within yourself,” Westerhold said.

To continue with Sappho’s theme, “Ode to Aphrodite” speaks of Sappho’s desire to commune with other women. Although she was asking the goddess of love to help her obtain a love interest, it also shows that surrounding oneself with other women can be a big key to obtaining that hard-earned feeling of self-worth. Remember your value and revel in the value that communion can bring you.

When in doubt, follow the three steps: know yourself and your emotions, renew your mind with literature and poetry and surround yourself with others who share your ideals and renew your spirit. I promise you aren’t alone in this and there are many others who will help you achieve the much sought-after state of balance and spiritual happiness.

Renaissance | 11

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The Current State of Education A closer look into the role higher education has on the teacher shortage across America Writen by Alexius Brunson Designed by Taylor Pearson | Photography by Maddingly Cotton In the United States, there is a teacher shortage. That much has been true for a while, with the severity of it depending on the subject matter and location.

If you were to survey a random group of people about the teacher shortage, you would encounter a variety of different answers. Most would be centered around the public education system as it stands today with a focus on the bad behavior of students, lack of support from the administration and low salaries.

Although there is an overall dissatisfaction among many teachers in the workforce already, the issue runs even deeper with fewer teachers entering the workforce in general.

According to Pew Research Center, the percentage of students attaining education degrees has decreased 19% when compared to 2000-01.

However, that brings up the question: why?

First, education faces the same troubles as many other humanities and liberal arts degrees. Respect for STEM majors has grown, while the respect for majors outside of STEM has decreased, with education being one of the hardest hit.

Brianna Johnson, a sophomore in the Elementary Deaf and Hard of Hearing education program, explained her experience.

“I would say a struggle of being in this program is the amount of resources, outreach and immersion opportunities we have. For most of us, we really heavily rely on gaining experience before it is time for internships and student teaching. It can be hard to get that, especially in the Deaf Ed program because there are not too many volunteer and outreach opportunities that happen every semester,” Johnson said.

The environment for education majors poses a problem as well. For some like Johnson, the tight-knit community works in their favor. She praises the fact that she can curate such a strong connection with other students in her major.

This, however, is not the same for all students, as some were fearful that sharing any negative experience with the program would jeopardize their place in the program.

The criticism heard most often, and seen in many programs across the country, is the unpaid internship or student teacher requirement that is needed for licensure.

At UT, senior education majors are required to student teach every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. On top of this requirement, a full schedule of college curriculum is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Renaissance | 13

The financial burden on education majors is high, and with most of their time focused on school and work, it is difficult for many to get a part-time job.

The schools that a student teacher may be assigned to can be up to 30 miles away, and students are not provided transportation. Student teachers must also follow the school’s dress code, which means purchasing a new wardrobe for some. This is compounded by the need for student teachers to provide their own materials.

Despite these complaints, many education majors remain in the College of Education because teaching is their passion. Many express gratitude for the education program and everything that they have learned. After all, every major has its downsides.

Another student in the Child and Family Studies (CFS) program with a concentration in Early Childhood Education, expressed love for her program, specifically her professors.

“The positives that I have seen are that most of the CFS instructors are or at one point were school teachers, which I feel provides valuable insight into what life is actually like in the classroom. I feel like this is better preparing me to teach,” the student said.

At the end of the day, teachers are an important aspect of a flourishing society. Despite the critics, education is something that should be seriously considered if you have a passion for this work.

It is possible to be realistic in your choices while following your dreams, and just because something seems bad or doesn’t work for one person doesn’t mean that the same applies to you. Change can happen, and it starts with how you think about things.

For many, that change is the perception of education majors as the “arts and crafts” major.

“We have hard classes just like you do, and treating us like it is easier to learn about the best way to educate children and the many factors that go into education is just minimizing the work that we do. At the end of the day, teachers are the ones who will be educating your children, so the least you can do is treat them with respect,” the student said.

After all, someone has to teach the new generation how to be better than the generation who came before them.

M od

el: Ja le n

M igu

el

Ablaze magazine’s editorial staff has the right to grant anonyminity to sources when their safety is in jeopardy.

Anonyminity was granted to a source in this article.

14 | Ablaze

Renaissance | 15

40 Under 40

Brittany Faith, An Example of Exceptional Work Highlighted on UT’s 40 Under 40 List Written by Ella Kelley Designed by Kayleigh McGee | Photography by Maddingly Cotton

“Whatever you do, do it deliberately.”

In 2021, The University of Tennessee Alumni Association named the first Volunteer 40 Under 40. This new award is an annual recognition of 40 UTK alumni under the age of 40 who have done exceptionally well in their careers following their graduation.

In 2022, 23 of these recipients were women. All of the women recognized on this list have worked hard to achieve success in their fields, and they all serve as an inspiration to young women at UT.

Faith realized what direction she wanted to go in her career after working at a pro bono clinic during her first semester of law school.

At this clinic, Faith saw a couple that she had gone to high school with who had gotten engaged. They were at the clinic because the woman was a DREAMer, and the couple was concerned about her status.

One of these women, Brittany Faith, a lawyer and head of Grant, Konvalinka and Harrison’s Immigration Group in Chattanooga shared her experience at UT and in her career.

A DREAMer is someone who was born outside of the United States of America and was brought here as a child. The DREAM Act, which stands for the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors, is a piece of legislation that provides protection for people who have grown up in the U.S. but are still undocumented.

Faith is originally from Oak Ridge, Tennesseee. She moved to attend college at Pennsylvania State University and thought she would never return to the state. However, a scholarship from the UT School of Law brought her back and changed the trajectory of her life.

The couple wanted to apply for a marriage license but was worried about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) being notified due to the woman’s status. The couple spoke to an immigration attorney at the clinic and explained their situation, including that the woman was in nursing school.

“I was a political science major. I’d worked on some local campaigns, and I thought that the JD ( Juris Doctor) would be an added value to help me get further on campaigns.

Then I ended up in a completely different place,” Faith said.

The attorney informed them that the woman would not be able to get a nursing license in the state of Tennessee because she was undocumented.

16 | Ablaze

“In order to make withdrawals, you have to make deposits.”

“You have to show that you can do the work to be able to get the lenience to sometimes not,” Faith continued. “You have to prove yourself, and pay your dues a little bit.”

Faith shared how frustrating it is to work in immigration law because there are so many delays.

“A work authorization application, they say, takes 3.75 minutes to adjudicate. Why is there a ninemonth wait for that?” Faith said.

Despite the difficulties that go along with her job, Faith also loves it a lot because she does not work with deportation.

After witnessing this encounter, Faith decided she wanted to get involved in immigration law so she could help people like this couple.

During the rest of her time at the School of Law, Faith worked at multiple non-profits and eventually landed a job at her current firm.

Faith shared that there are a lot of tough parts to her job. She explained that working in immigration during the Trump administration was difficult.

“They liked to make immigration announcements on Friday afternoons … So, you’re trying to leave early or get out of here or whatever, and then your phone is blowing up,” Faith said.

“I’m here to make people happy. People come to me and tell me they got married, they got a new job or they’re applying for citizenship,” Faith said.

Faith added that some of her favorite parts of her job are giving people hope when they thought they had none and building relationships with her clients.

Faith shared her perspective on the attitude toward work that she has observed in recent years.

“I think that people say they’re going to do things, and then they don’t actually follow through. When I say I’m going to do something, I do it,” Faith said.

She explained that she sees this problem in the younger generation in the workforce.

Faith explained that the local news would call on Friday afternoons after immigration announcements were made by the government.

“I see a lot of Gen Z people say, ‘Oh, I want worklife balance.’ And what that seems to mean is that they want self-care more than work,” Faith said.

“And then the law was constantly changing and then there’d be a lawsuit here, and there’d be a stay here. It was just exhausting,” Faith said.

Faith added to this, sharing a piece of advice she received in law school.

Faith then shared what she considered the best advice she has been given. She was told by a judge in Knoxville: “Whatever you do, do it deliberately.”

She elaborated that this means separating your time at work and home.

“If you’re at home and relaxing, you do that. If you’re at work, do that,” Faith said.

By applying this advice to her work, Faith has become very accomplished since her time at the School of Law. In addition to her work as head of GKH’s Immigration Group, Faith is a contributor to the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the American Bar Association, Fair Immigration Reform Movement, Tennessee Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition, and others.

Faith also works with a variety of non-profit organizations and media outlets, as well as volunteering for organizations like Midsouth Immigration Advocates and Justice for Our Neighbors.

Brittany Faith is a great example of the hard work, dedication and excellence that is honored by UT’s 40 Under 40 Award.

Under the Biden administration, Faith still experiences her fair share of difficulties.

“The Biden administration has not corrected a lot of the Trump administration stuff. They put in a lot of things to slow down case processing,” Faith said.

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To Be Woman Written by Ava Franzoy Designed by Emma Thomas | Photography by Maddingly Cotton Art is a powerful tool that can depict complex issues. Kenzie Felkins, an art student, composed a collection that expressed the journey of a young woman growing up with mental illness.

Felkins’ collection, “To Be Woman,” was inspired by a personal piece that captured her transition between childhood and adulthood.

18 | Ablaze

The show took place on Feb. 10 and highlighted her ability to work with a variety of mediums including painting, collage, video, and sculpture. The pieces provided viewers with an opportunity to observe the perspective of a woman who has struggled with mental illness.

One in five women experiences common mental illnesses, such as anxiety or depression, according to the Agenda Alliance.

Erica Cofer, a psychology major, provided further insight into the statistic.

“Women are more likely to have mental illness from environmental stressors and internalizing emotions, most likely from societal roles. Anxiety and depression are some of the most common ones as well as trauma/stress-related disorders,” Cofer said.

Felkins’ vulnerability and willingness to highlight mental health is important to all women but particularly those who may feel reluctant to open up about their own experiences.

“The show is very personal but also societal because not everything resonates with me directly. It is historical in the way that women carry the pain of women that came before them,” Felkins said.

Model: Kenzie Felkins

“Not Feeling Very Good” is a video stitched together from various other works on the internet and took Felkins nearly two weeks to complete.

“At the time when I made the piece it was personally relevant to me,” Felkins said.

The parallel between her works captures the complexity of mental illness because the show acknowledged the lows and highs of the female experience. While a majority of her pieces confessed a struggle, glimpses of hope were sprinkled throughout. The pieces that evoke positive emotions served as a form of relief for those who feel permanently down.

The show, although containing dark undertones, included pieces that evoked feelings of joy such as “Sir Bunny Hops A Lot,” an adorable stuffed bunny made from recycled fabric and lentils.

His bright presence, which appeared to be an ode to feelings of safety and of childhood starkly contrasted with other pieces such as “Not Feeling Very Good,” which Felkins said, “is about the fall into depression and what it means to be a woman with mental illness.”

By showcasing mental illness through a medium like art, it begins to become destigmatized. Women have been conditioned, by the media and the public, to view mental illness as something negative and even isolating. Felkins combated this by turning her experience into something beautiful and productive.

Cofer also expressed a positive outlook on mental illness.

“Mental illness can be used to learn and grow in life; it also connects a lot of people together,” Cofer said.

Felkins’ work showcased that everyone has the potential to create something beautiful from their deepest pain.

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MGC & NPHC See Growth Across UT’s Campus Written by Ella Stweart Designed by Kyla Kirby | Photography by Kevin Segovia

T

he Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) at UT is comprised of six culturally diverse sororities and fraternities. The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) consists of the Divine Nine, which are historically African American greek life organizations. At UT, there are currently eight of those nine organizations active on campus.

ReKiyah Owens, a junior and member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, is the Vice President of Administration for the 2023 NPHC Executive Board.

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated became the first MGC on campus in 2001 and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated became the first NPHC organization in 1970. Stephen J. Black, the MGC and NPHC coordinator for the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life, said there are many reasons these organizations are important.

She believes membership has increased because NPHC brand is becoming more well-known.

The organizations “have similar core values of service, advocacy and scholarship. The members create community through programming and community engagement that helps all students develop a sense of identity, mattering and of belonging,” Black said.

Sophomore Ann Howard became a member of Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Incorporated this year. The diverse backgrounds of each person provide a shared sense of comfort which is Howard’s favorite aspect of being an MGC member.

These organizations allow members of diverse backgrounds and cultures to come together with other similar students to create friendships and produce change. Another key element of these organizations’ values is community service and outreach.

Children’s education, mentoring and domestic violence awareness are a few ways the MGC gives back through its philanthropy.

The NPHC organizations are involved with the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

20 | Ablaze

Both of Owens’ parents are members of the NPHC so she wanted to continue that legacy and in doing so she found a sense of belonging at a PWI.

“We are putting on more events to appeal to the eyes of the students we are trying to recruit and make sure that we are being seen and heard. Not just to the students but to the school as well,” Owens said.

Models: Alyssa Woodard, Christian Brown, Gianna Morris, Jeloux Enriquez, Joshua Lane, Rekiyah Owens, Siedah Buckley

Over the last several years, membership in the university’s MGC and NPHC has increased. From the 2020-2021 academic year to the 2021-2022 academic year, membership rose by 14%.

Students join these organizations to find comfort by surrounding themselves with others who have had similar experiences as minorities at a Primarily White Institution (PWI) such as UT. The members come together to use their voices, support one another and raise awareness for their cultures.

“I am part Filipina and white, so I have always had a hard time finding a place where I feel connected to my heritage without judgment.

These girls have experienced similar tribulations as I have growing up … we are a close family that will continue to empower the next generation of women and spread Asian awareness,” Howard said.

The MGC and NPHC both hope to continue their growth across campus and welcome anyone interested in joining to reach out to learn more.

According to Howard, these organizations provide a safe space for all and “has become a tight-knit community that is always open for anyone to join.”

“

People want connection with people and ideas greater than themselves.

They see it, and see themselves, in the sibling hoods [within] our organizations, Black said.

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The Art of Getting Over a Breakup Written by Sarah Grace Kennedy Designed by Holly Sarah Liban | Photography by Leigh Shields A terrible breakup seems to be a right of passage as we mature and come into our own.

Suddenly, the pictures of you together are erased from their Instagram, and with that, all of your memories seem to fade away with them. Your nights are filled with endless thoughts and you think, “this pain will never end.”

However, with time, the tears and anger dissipate into something beautiful. This doesn’t happen instantaneously, and it can sometimes take a lot of work.

To heal from a broken relationship, you need to begin by making positive changes in your life.

Resist the temptation to call them. You’ll never heal if you keep giving energy to someone who doesn’t see a future with you.

When you are ready, you may need to unfollow them on socials. Ignorance is truly bliss in this situation. What are you waiting to see? Their memories with someone new?

You don’t need to see what they are doing. It’s not your concern anymore where they are and who they are with.

This can be challenging, but the longer you focus on someone who left you is time wasted that you could have invested in yourself.

You have the opportunity to learn to love yourself again.

An opportunity to find who you are without them and that is so exciting.

You are young, wild and free.

Sit down with yourself and think about who and what makes you happy. Make plans. You have to push yourself to make new memories without them.

While it is helpful to distract yourself with new and exciting plans, you also have to take the time to sit with your emotions and recognize how you feel. There has to be a balance, or otherwise, your healing process will take even longer than it needs to.

You may have lost yourself in the midst of your relationship, or maybe you didn’t truly know yourself before it began. Reflection is a powerful tool to understand yourself further.

Talk to your friends and family about how you’re feeling.

Maybe they saw signs that you were losing yourself along the way. Maybe they had no idea there was anything wrong. However, at the end of the day, they are here to support you and you don’t have to suffer alone.

It’s okay to feel sad, angry or any other emotion during your healing process. Try not to judge yourself.

You don’t have to prove anything to anyone.

Models: Alison Price, Arnashia Gray 22 | Ablaze

You don’t have to constantly chase happiness.

Be kind to yourself. Healing takes time. You may go a long time without crying about it and then find yourself breaking down one day. Remember how much progress you have made and be proud of that.

Most importantly, push yourself to be comfortable alone. It can be so easy to dive into a new relationship before you have healed yourself from your last.

There are no winners in a breakup.

You don’t have to prove anything to anyone.

Take this time to work on yourself and wait for someone that values you for you. You will know when you are ready. Stop trying to chase down the next great thing.

Chances are you are emotionally unavailable right now. Just delete the apps for a while and stop giving just anyone your attention. Look for authentic love (when you are ready), not a quick fix.

The truth is that a relationship doesn’t equal happiness. It can bring a lot of joy, but it’s not the solution to your inner problems. When you find happiness within yourself, a relationship will be a happy bonus to your already fulfilled life.

Most people tend to form their lives around someone else. Build your own life and future and eventually, your perfect person will fit right in.

The true art of getting over a breakup is rediscovering yourself. After you dump the pain, sadness and anger, you can take the love you had for them and give it back to yourself. When you invest in yourself you’ll be surprised by how many good things start coming your way.

Everyone is looking for an answer, but the answer is you.

All those nights you talked until the sun came up. The nights you danced in the kitchen. The nights you didn’t let go. They finally become just beautiful memories with someone you once saw as beautiful too. Those memories shouldn’t be erased. You can still cherish them.

Those times may have been golden, but so are you. The day you realize you are golden without someone else’s shine bouncing off of you is when you know you’re finally free.

The truth is that a relationship doesn’t equal happiness.f Renaissance | 23

Teodora Trifonova: The Power of International Voices in Journalism

Written by Madison Russell Designed by Taylor Pearson | Photography by Kevin Segovia In today’s interconnected world, good journalists are just as important as concrete foundations.

No information, it seems, is off-limits. Citizens of the world today review the news while brushing their teeth, receive a wide amount of breaking news alerts throughout the day, and fall asleep scrolling Twitter. This makes the fact that misinformation, which has permeated our most common spaces, all the more dangerous. Without accurate, up-to-date information, you are left drowning, unable to form fact-based opinions.

Teodora Trifonova is a big believer in fact-based, responsible journalism. In fact, it is the opus of her whole career. Trifonova, born in Bulgaria, knew from a young age that she wanted to be a reporter, and not just a reporter but a journalist – boots on the ground – gathering the story firsthand and making a difference. Trifonova had no connections in the journalism world when she started her career.

“I walked into different stations until one offered me a chance,” Trifonova said, describing how she would “ask if they were looking for trainees” and often would “hand her resume to security guards.”

This led to her start, 15 years ago, on Bulgarian National Radio. It was hard work, but Trifonova knew that ultimately the experience would be worth it. This led to her next introductory role, as a trainee at BTV, Bulgaria’s leading news station. She was offered a job at BTV at the age of 23, making her the youngest member of the team.

Trifonova has contributed to their coverage ever since. In 2015, she was chosen by the World Press Institute to be sent to the United States to further her craft, a great honor that hundreds of other professionals had applied for, but only ten receive annually. This opportunity sparked a love for international reporting and her current path as a foreign correspondent.

“You learn a lot when reporting internationally,” Trifonova said, “you are able to see a situation and meet people” that one normally would not see otherwise. She has been to several countries throughout Europe, seeing the notable similarities and differences that exist between various cultures.

Soon after, she received a Fulbright grant to study at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. During her studies, Trifonova worked in Washington D.C. covering stories for PBS Newshour and Axios, an undeniably crammed schedule, but a time she referred to as “the experience of a lifetime.” It wouldn’t be long before Trifonova was once again recruited for her journalistic prowess, this time by The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She is pursuing her Ph.D. at UT, as well as teaching and working for BTV. “If you want to be a good instructor, you have to be in this profession because it is developing so fast and you must be up to date,” Trifonova said. Trifonova gives her students a window into the world of journalism that she never saw in school. She seeks to ensure that students have a “practical” view of what a career in journalism truly entails. Trifonova’s overarching career goal is not to gather as many accolades as possible, nor to be popular on TV, but to help and make an impact.

“People need to be well informed and trust journalists, with good quality journalists to make up their mind without bias,” Trifonova said.

24 | Ablaze

It is no secret that society has become increasingly divided over the years, and Trifonova, who covered both the 2016 and 2020 elections can speak to this shift as it happens. Trifonova has seen firsthand how society has become “more divided and angry” since the 2016 election. This change has forged the belief in Trifonova that her work is more imperative with each passing day. With this in mind, it is easy to imagine just how busy she has been through her fifteen-year career.

“You must be the expert of the story and must look to history to remember the best practices in journalism,” Trifonova said. This responsibility is one that Trifinova does not take lightly and is central to all of her endeavors.

“The people expect more from [journalists] and we must not underestimate them,” Trifonova said.

Trifonova’s career started in Bulgaria, a country where free speech and media freedom were not always a given. Trifonova’s triumphant career shows the importance of highlighting voices from around the world in our media.

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Renaissance | 25

The Rebirth of College Students Written by Lily Rutherford Designed by Olivia Omer | Photography by Bailey Beller

Models: Carly Bole, Donatella Thomas

Over three years ago, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. UT, along with nearly every educational institute in the United States of America, sent its students home following spring break, with no idea when life would return back to normal.

For many, it felt like life stopped. Now, in 2023, life has opened up again and most university classes have resumed in person. Today, countless college students are left on their own to find a sense of normalcy in a post-shutdown world.

For many UT students, a significant part of their college career has been infringed upon by COVID-19.

Sophomore Lilly Highfill shared how the pandemic impacted her transition from high school into college.

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Highfill’s experience of loneliness being in college during the pandemic is widely shared. In the beginning, the shutdown felt jarring; the state of the world, and education, became completely virtual, and in turn, startlingly lonely. Living in a time such as the past few years has made many people change their career wishes and life goals.

Without a doubt, it’s a relief that most of what closed in the heat of the pandemic has now reopened. UT certainly went through its own changes throughout and post-shutdown.

Dr. Marisa Higgins, lecturer in the Department of English, recalled how, “Rebirth might be an apt way to describe it, or perhaps a sense of rebuilding or reorientation. UT, like any institution, is trying to find out how to cater to incoming students, and that does require – for better or for worse – a type of rebirth.”

Educators and students alike have all had to figure things out as time has progressed past the introduction of COVID-19.

“Current Gen Z college students do have a sense of justice and a compassion that I haven’t seen in previous years,” Dr. Higgins said.

While going through college post-shutdown certainly has its difficulties, some aspects of student life may have changed for the better.

Dr. Katherine J. Wheeler, lecturer and assistant professor in the School of Architecture, saw firsthand the effects of the pandemic on her students; many seemed to have increased anxiety levels and felt isolated from their peers.

When looking at the state of college and student culture now, it can be difficult to communicate with one another. After a couple of years of seeing classmates only through a screen, submitting all assignments online and trying to figure life out in a situation no one had faced before, many things are significantly different from how they used to be.

Even the little things can make a difference, especially on a campus as big as UT. Tailgating with family and friends before a home football game and nearly the entire student body spending the first warm day of spring basking in the sun are just two of the many little things that can bring so much joy after a time period of so much change.

These things are not only what bring us together as Volunteers, but what relates us to other people.

“I build more cushions into the syllabus than I did before …

[I’m] trying to be more aware of students’ anxiety,” Wheeler said.

With educators like Dr. Higgins and Dr. Wheeler who try to give more leniency and understanding to their students because of the impact they’ve seen the pandemic leave on the world, we can be certain that, at least at UT, an academic rebirth has begun.

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Sustainability Starts Local Bachleda manages her own business, while she works as the gallery director at the Knoxville Community Darkroom. Bachleda hosts workshops and organizes events for vendor markets or music festivals.

“One of the workshops I teach at the Knoxville Community Darkroom is a form of sun printing called cyanotype,” Bachleda said.

Bachleda has created printed pieces using the cyanotype method and wants to create a collection using it that will drop in spring 2023.

“I coat the fabric with a light-sensitive emulsion and expose botanical specimens or negatives in the sun. Once they’re developed, the image is a permanent cyan blue although I can tone the fabrics with different natural dyes to change the color,” Bachleda said.

Written by Madelyn Stone Designed by Sinit Tesfamariam | Photography by Madelyn Stone

Rainbow Spice Vintage features unique upcycled designs created by a local

“Often when people ask me where I find my garments and materials, I have the running joke that at this point they just find me. I started out thrifting, going to garage sales and more recently started getting into estate sales. It’s important to me to reuse as much as possible through my upcycling and vintage curating. I get to give secondhand pieces new life,” Bachleda said.

Knoxville artist, Sharyn Bachleda.

At four years old, Bachleda attended her first art class. She learned how to hand sew when she was eight years old in order to make clothing for her dolls. Bachleda then began altering thrifted clothing items for her and her friends and soon started adding patchwork.

Bachleda’s fashion inspiration came from 2000’s pop stars and Bratz dolls who were known for their “passion for fashion” through their adventurous outfits. In school, Bachleda had to wear a uniform, but she expressed herself through her sock, jewelry, belt and hair accessories choices.

Bachleda graduated early from high school and studied art at Pellissippi State University. Bachleda then transferred to Watkins College of Art Design & Film in Nashville where she received her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts. While in college she focused on everything from film, photography, painting, printmaking, installation art and sculpture.

Bachleda hoped to become a professional artist and teacher after college, and never expected to fall into the fashion world. After graduating, Bachleda worked as a fashion photographer for a vintage shop. She ran the shop’s social media where she styled and photographed outfits.

Styling for someone else’s brand made Bachleda realize that she could start her own business.

“My first pop-up markets were in Nashville in 2016 but I didn’t start building my community here until 2020. Oddly enough, at the height of the pandemic, I found a new community that started with the Retrospect parking lot pop-up markets and slowly met more people hosting outdoor markets,” Bachleda said.

Model: Sharyn Bachleda Bachleda’s art is often inspired by the second-hand clothing she finds.

“I love dying fabrics that are stained and bringing them back to life. I also have a lot of fun painting on fabric and doing simple patchwork. Oftentimes the patchwork starts as a way to mend a garment or cover a stain or hole but sometimes I just have fun creating and combining patterns,” Bachleda said.

Rainbow Spice Vintage is not only a creative outlet for Bachleda but also a way for her to make a difference in her community.

Bachleda has found a community of fellow artists and business owners in Knoxville.

“I love to educate people about the detriments of the fast fashion industry and urge people to use what is already here. It’s important from a sustainability standpoint and also because I believe in supporting people, not corporations,” Bachleda said.

“Something beautiful that a lot of the fellow vendors I’ve connected with here have in common is community over competition. This is a mindset I bring into curating my own markets,” Bachleda said.

Rainbow Vintage Spice is now sold at Mood Ring Vintage in Knoxville, and Sharyn Bachleda is a prime example of how to turn your passion into something bigger than yourself.

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Ask

Ablaze Written by Mckenna Norris Designed by Sydney Barney | Photography by Leigh Shields

We asked college students to submit questions via Instagram Story stickers. College is full of new, exciting, and fulfilling experiences. However, college also opens a whole new set of challenges. Ablaze is here to help with advice on everything from self-care to academics.

What’s your go-to self-care activity? Any tips for finding stress relief ?

Dear Self-Care Enthusiast, A self-care activity I typically enjoy is a spa night. I find that taking the time to do my skincare routine is cleansing for my mental and physical health. My skincare routine starts with doublecleansing my face with a cleansing balm and a scrub. Then I love making a “skincare smoothie” where I add hyaluronic acid, caffeine drops, and other serums to my moisturizer for a nice glow.

After I go in with all of my serums, I put on my under-eye masks and use my ice roller for about 15 minutes. I find that taking a simple 30 minutes to do your skincare is very grounding and relaxing, as it’s the only thing you have to focus on for the time being.

My biggest tip for stress relief is to take things one day at a time. Telling myself that I can only control the present has helped me to stay centered. It’s important to try to not worry about things that are several months away. The future is not as intimidating when you take everything day by day. Enjoy the moment you’re in. I find the best way to refocus yourself on the present is by utilizing your senses. A trick I learned from my therapist, the “5-4-3-2-1 technique”, helps ground me. You simply acknowledge five things you can see around you, four things you can touch or feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.

XOXO, – Ablaze

Any tips for balancing a school and social life in college?

Dear Worried Student, Setting priorities and deadlines in advance is one of the best ways I have found to balance my school and social life. A bit of preparation allows me to stay on track with my classes, as well as to catch up with my friends and family. My favorite way to organize my busy schedule and stay on top of things is to use a website called Notion. It has thousands of templates you can use and personalize to fit your custom schedule and to-do lists. I find it extremely helpful to motivate me to finish my checklist and stay balanced with extracurriculars and school. It’s important to have a balance between social activities, academics, and extracurriculars. Allow yourself to have time to relax and enjoy your college era.

XOXO, - Ablaze

Row 1: Holly Sarah Liban, Kayleigh McGee, Kyla Kirby Row 4: Abby Madan, Ella Kelley, Madison Russell Row 2: Olivia Omer, Peyton Blumenfeld, Sydney Barney Row 5: Mattie Chase, Alexius Brunson, Ava Franzoy Row 3: Emma Thomas, Sinit Tesfamariam, Taylor Pearson

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What’s your favorite way to stay involved on campus?

Dear Extrovert, One of the benefits of going to a large SEC school is that there are so many different ways to get involved on campus. Joining a club can seem intimidating, but the experience can be so rewarding with the opportunity to meet new people or find a new passion. One way to ease the anxiety of joining a new club is to ask a friend to join the club with you. If you can’t find someone to join with you, reach out to the people in charge of the club and ask what to expect at the first meeting. They will be happy to help support you. If you are having trouble finding the right club for you, the Student Life Department and Center for Student Engagement are knowledgeable of every established club on campus and can help you find a club to join.

XOXO, – Ablaze

It’s important to have a balance between social activities, academics, and extracurriculars. Allow yourself to have time to relax and enjoy your college era.

What is the best way of finding work experience?

Dear Scholar, Finding work experience that coincides with your major and fits within your schedule can be overwhelming. However, UTK has numerous resources that you should take advantage of to find experience that will boost your resume.

Talk to your teachers and advisors to see if they know of any opportunities geared toward your interests. Positions on campus are willing to work around your academic schedule. The Center for Career Development is a great resource that the university offers to find positions that can work with your school schedule, interests and accessibility, such as location and requirements.

XOXO, – Ablaze Row 1: McKenna Norris, Abigail Doehler, Sarah Grace Kennedy, Anna Eason, Lily Rutherford, Alison Price Row 2: Reagan Wilson, Molly Nichols, Amari Mills Row 3: Ashlin Coffinberry, Arnashia Gray, Macie Dillard Row 4: Yvonne Ratledge, Jeria Eduave, Jenisse Sanches Row 5: Leigh Shields, Bailey Beller, Maddingly Cotton Row 6: Madelyn Stone, Kevin Segovia 30 | Ablaze

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Greetings from Spain

Greetings From

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Spain!

Written by Anna Eason Designed by Peyton Blumenfeld | Photography by Erin Herbers, Lita Lemmon

T

his Spring 2023 semester a group of students departed to Spain with the College of Communications (CCI) for a semester-long study abroad program. Ablaze has an inside scoop into the program as two of the graphic design team share their experience with the program so far.

The program allows students within CCI to learn about their specific majors, journalism, information sciences, public relations and communication studies, in a new environment.

The students’ apartment is close to the beach in Valencia.

Valencia is a beautiful port city on Spain’s southeastern coast.

Known for its beaches, walking trails, arts and museums, Valencia has much to offer to any potential student. With a population of around 790,000, it is the third most populated municipality in Spain.

The city is also known for its architecture. While walking through the city one can see many different examples of old Spanish architecture mixed with modern designs.

The City of Arts and Sciences, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, can be found in Valencia. The architectural complex is a feat of modern architecture and brings in many students and tourists every year.

Lita Lemmon, a junior studying public relations, reflects on the beginning of her study abroad journey.

“I have settled in very nicely, although culture shock is real! I get waves of disorientation,” Lemmon said.

Erin Herbers, a junior studying advertising and graphic design, explains that she chose Spain partially for the internship.

“The idea of working internationally in advertising really appealed to me,” Herbers said.

The group is studying at the Universidad Catolica de Valencia, and the experience has been different yet rewarding. The language barrier has not been a large issue with classes because all of the professors speak English. However, the campus is spread widely across the city with buildings far apart.

Studying in a different country is not just about the classes; the culture plays a huge part in the experience as a whole.

“People are present and intentional about listening. There is always an absence of phones at restaurants and parks … the culture here is relaxed,” Lemmon said.

Members expressed that being in this different culture has taught them to sit back and not live fast-paced all of the time.

“It has truly made me realize how much I’m on my phone for no reason, and that I need to take a step back. I want to have deeper conversations with people,” Herbers said Meals in Spain are said to be a much more engaging affair, often lasting hours and featuring people talking and listening to one another.

Erin also described the public transportation to be a highlight of the trip for her. While it is easy and nice to walk to most places in Spain, “it saves a lot of time and energy,” said Herbers.

When looking at the numerous study abroad programs that UT offers, you may question, ‘is this for me?’

Language is a key part of the study abroad experience, and it has seemed to heighten the experience for students who choose to go.

“It has been amazing. I would recommend the program to other students and encourage them to familiarize themselves with the language even if it is not a requirement,” Lemmon said.

Take it from our fellow Ablaze members; it is worth it to step out of your comfort zone and experience a new culture.

Models: Erin Herbers, Lita Lemmon

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Written by Abigail Doehler Designed by Holly Sarah Liban, Taylor Pearson Answers can be found on our website at www.ablazeutk.com

Down: 1. Princess of Wales, advocate AIDs, and eating disorder advocate.

2. Doctor known for her philosophy of education, named after herself.

3. Heroine and Patron Saint of France who lead her country to victory in 1429.

4. Producer, author, actress, and philanthropist best known for her talk show that ran for 25 years from 1986-2011.

5. America’s fashionable First Lady from 1961-63.

6. First female American astronaut.

7. Heroic American abolitionist who was born into slavery.

9. Latina painter whose muse was herself and Mexico.

11. Performer on “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West” who taught women marksmanship and selfdefense.

13. First self-made American millionaire.

16. First Jewish woman to serve as a Supreme Court justice.

21. English primatologist and anthropologist who studied chimpanzees for 60 years.

24. 1950s Hollywood star turned Princess of Monaco.

26. 1980s rockstar known for singing “I Love Rock and Roll”.

29. American singer known for her song “Rehab”.

33. American singer, songwriter, producer, and band member of Fleetwood Mac. 38. English writer known for her novel, “Pride and Prejudice”.

40. Pioneer, known for writing the “Little House on the Prairie” series.

41. East Tennessee’s country music legend and cultural icon.

43. Lady Vols Legend.

44. Businesswoman, actress, and female pioneer of comedy.

46. English mathematician and writer known as the first computer programmer.

47. Chinese-American fashion designer whose brand is named after herself.

50. Ancient Egyptian Queen.

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Across: 8. 1990s Latina Popstar.

10. Japanese-American activist, artist, and co-writer of John Lennon’s hit song “Imagine”.

12. First woman to win a Nobel Prize and discoverer of Radium.

14. America’s first Black First Lady.

15. Indigenous American who helped discover the Louisiana territory.

17. Empress of Russia who overthrew her husband to gain power.

18. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

19. Competitive American surfer and shark attack survivor.

20. The top-selling rapper of the 2010s, known as “The Queen of Rap”.

22. America’s first First Lady.

23. World’s greatest female tennis player.

25. Journalist, activist, and leader of Second-Wave Feminism.

27. 12-time Grammy winner known as “The Queen of Rock and Roll”.

28. Activist, statistician, and founder of nursing known as “The Lady with the Lamp”.

30. Jewish-German girl who documented her life living under Nazi prosecution in a journal that became a bestseller.

31. Catholic nun and Nobel Peace Prize winner known for her charity.

32. 19th century poet regarded as one of the most important American poets.

34. America’s golden girl.

35. Queen of England and Ireland who never married.

36. Hollywood icon and child star from 1935 to 1938.

37. Pakistani advocate and world’s youngest Nobel Prize recipient.

39. Most popular female jazz singer for over half a century called “The First Lady of Song”.

42. American author, disability rights advocate, political activist, and educator who lost her sight and hearing.

45. First female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic.

48. Civil Rights activist known for not giving up her seat on a bus.

49. Seven-time Olympic Gold Medalist regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time.