Gardner-Webb Women’s History Month Activities Celebrate Contributions of Women in Business, Science, Art and Health 

Activities Planned Throughout the Month Spotlight Women Leaders in Community and Region

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Women’s History Month celebrates and recognizes the achievements of women in a variety of fields across the United States and globally. Gardner-Webb University’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion has several events planned throughout the month of March to highlight women who have made significant contributions in fields such as business, science, art and health.

Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Lawrence Brinson, explained that while Women’s History Month recognizes the perseverance, creativity, and unyielding determination of these women, it is also a time to look to the future. “These events at Gardner Webb are not merely a way of looking back at the past; they also serve to empower women in the present and shape the future,” Brinson noted. “By highlighting the accomplishments of women from various fields, we honor their contributions and inspire the next generation of trailblazers to aim for greater heights.”

Assistant Director of Diversity and Inclusion Lauren Washington observed how she personalizes Women’s History Month. “For me, it allows me to honor, celebrate, and reflect on the strong yet feminine figures who have helped shape me into the person I am today such as: my mother, grandmother, aunt, and cousin,” she reflected. “Oftentimes, I’ve looked to them for guidance on growing into the person God ordained me to be while trying to figure out life. Learning and living based on the platform they built for me, I have learned to be confident in taking up space and keeping my eyes focused on the plan God has for me and my life.”

According to the Library of Congress, the first women’s history celebration lasted a week. Congress passed a law authorizing and requesting the president to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982, as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, congress passed a law designating the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the president to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”

International Women’s Day, held this year on March 8, traces its beginning to 1908 when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. A year later, on Feb. 28, 1909, the first National Women’s Day was observed. In 1911, the first International Women’s Day was held to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Karen Aubrey praised the women who inspire and challenge others. “I am grateful to the women who have opened the doors of opportunity for those generations who followed them, who have been advocates and champions for women and girls to be able to dream and aspire,” she noted. “And, I am thankful for those women who continue to lead and expand access for all.”

In looking ahead to the month of activities planned, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose emphasized everything the celebration encompasses. “Recognizing Women’s History Month isn’t just about celebrating the achievements of extraordinary individuals,” she asserted. “It’s about acknowledging the diverse perspectives, talents, and contributions that enrich our academic community. By honoring women’s history, universities affirm their commitment to inclusivity, equality, and the empowerment of all students and faculty.”

Women’s History Month Events

Gardner-Webb’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion and other departments on campus have events planned in observance of the month.

Empowering Women Day

March 7 – 9, 10 and 11 a.m. in Hamrick Hall, Blanton Auditorium. The Godbold College of Business will have alumnae on panels at both sessions and then Superior Court Judge Sally Kirby Turner will speak to students at 11 a.m.  Alumnae include:  Savannah Burns, Brittney Spangler Beam, Candice Hayes and Catherine Fox. 

Art Exhibit – HerStory Unveiled

March 19 – Tucker Student Center

Description: Showcase of artwork celebrating the contributions of women throughout history.

Film Screening

March 21 – Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and movie starts at 7 p.m. Bottom Patio of Tucker Student Center

Description: Screening of the inspiring film about the unsung heroines of the early space program.

Women in Business & Empowerment Workshop – Leading with Confidence

March 27 – 3 to 5 p.m. Dover Campus Center, Bottom Floor Lounge

Description: Leadership development workshop focusing on building confidence and empowering women in various aspects of life.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.