March 30, 2023
As March comes to a close, we reflect on Women’s History Month and recognize the wonderful achievements of women across generations. We’re immensely grateful for all the women here at PLUS and the diverse backgrounds and experiences they bring to our team!
We asked the women of PLUS what Women’s History Month means to them, who the important female figures are in their lives and their favorite female historical figure.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women’s History Month fills me with gratitude to be surrounded by so many brilliant, brave, talented and loving women who I get to enjoy life with, especially after losing my mom at age 20.
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
My best friend, Dorinda Moss Verhoff, who literally fought for everything she has and does it gracefully and fearlessly.
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Queen Victoria, who took the throne at the young age of 18. Her most prominent ruling enforced a law that every child had to go to school.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the great accomplishments made by women in the face of systematic disenfranchisement. It is a particularly important time to celebrate the achievements of women of color and LGBTQ+ women.
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
My mom is my greatest female role model; she has shown me true strength and independence and has supported me in achieving my dreams, without letting any barriers keep me from following my goals.
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Bell Hooks, for reshaping my understanding of intersectional feminism and teaching me how to better advocate for myself, as well as give a platform to other women whose voices need to be heard.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
To me, this month means looking back at how far women have come in all aspects of society, and also reminds me to look up to the women that I work with and who motivate me every day to succeed!
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
Madeline Peterson, Carly Mulvihill, and Kait Moller on the PLUS digital team are some of the smartest and hardest-working people I know. They tackle tough situations and problem solve no matter what’s thrown at them. It’s fantastic to have people like that to look up to in the office and strive to imitate professionally.
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Not historical – but Serena Williams. She’s always advocated for women and is a powerful role model for female athletes!
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
It’s a time to celebrate women’s achievements and to be proud of being a woman. In the words of Beyonce, “Who Run the World? Girls.”
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
Angela Faulkner. She taught me to always follow my principles, that work can be fun, and that I don’t need to suppress my womanhood in order to be successful. My first time interacting with her, we met at her office (she was CEO of a political direct mail firm at the time), and everything was pink and girly. It inspired me so much that now my home office is pink as well.
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Any woman who stood up for women’s rights is my favorite, including, but not limited to: Lucretia Mott, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and so many more.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Celebrating the trailblazing legacies of the inspiring women in our families, our communities, and our nation who have paved the way before us.
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt – her self-assurance was predicated on a fierce calling to do what was right for our nation, especially in regard to religious freedom.
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Saint Joan of Arc. At just 17 years old, Joan of Arc led the successful French attack at Orléans which was the impetus for the peaceful truce of the Hundred Years’ War. Her radical boldness, relentless faith, and innate statesmanship won her an audience with the King of France and a place at the helm of his army, but she was later burned at the stake on false heretical accusations – exemplifying that doing the just thing is never linear and often demands great sacrifice.
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
Kait Moller, Lizzy Mills, and Laura Cantagallo on our digital team! They have to put up with me every day and they are always willing to help me out whenever. They ultimately taught me everything I know about having a professional career here at PLUS!
Who is your favorite female historical figure and why?
Carrie Chapman Catt! She went to my college, and I worked at the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women in Politics for three years, so I have always loved her. She was a huge part of the women’s suffrage movement as president while the 19th Amendment was added to the U.S. Constitution. Such a cool person!
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Celebrating women from different generations, ethnicities, and cultures. We have seen more women of color and part of the LGBTQ+ community in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), fights to improve wage gaps, and more women in business generally. We must continue supporting young women they’re the future leaders of our generation!
Who has been your greatest female role-model in your professional career and why?
My mother has taught me that by working hard I can achieve anything. I was fortunate enough to be a first-generation graduate from the University of Maryland. I had this opportunity because of my parents’ sacrifice and being raised by such a strong and confident woman.
Who is your favorite female historical figure?
Not historical, but my sisters and I are 10 and nine years apart. Growing up, I have learned a lot from their experiences!
Happy Women’s History Month!
###
"*" indicates required fields
