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Women Educating and Inspiring Generations
èßäÊÓƵhosts series of events in honor of Women’s History Month
University News | February 28, 2025
In recognition of Women's History Month and International Women's Day, èßäÊÓƵ University will host a series of special events throughout the month of March. These activities are intended to raise awareness and celebrate the important contributions of women throughout history and in modern society.
Each year, the selects a theme to highlight the significance of Women’s History Month, and the theme for 2025 is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” This year’s theme is particularly meaningful, as it celebrates the collective strength and enduring influence of women who have committed their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. According to the Alliance, these women have not only made significant contributions to society but have also served as powerful role models and sources of inspiration for generations, both past and present. Their dedication to empowering others through knowledge and guidance continues to shape and inspire future generations, ensuring that their legacy endures.
Women’s History Month Events at VWU
During the month of March, the Women’s History Month Periodic Table, which provides information about prominent figures in women’s history, will be on display outside the Office of Campus Life in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.
The Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies Program kicks off the week with a panel discussion titled, "Women in the Arts" on March 4, 12 - 1 p.m., in Pearce Suite, Batten Center. The panel will feature Alison Byrne, executive director of the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, and Reneé Duval Fairchild ‘00, chief philanthropy officer for the Chrysler Museum of Art and èßäÊÓƵalumna.
Also on March 7, from 2 - 4:30 p.m., the èßäÊÓƵCounseling Center hosts a Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®, a powerful and impactful event dedicated to raising awareness about the causes, effects, and solutions to gender violence and sexual assault. Starting in the Grill, don high heels and walk a mile around campus in a dramatic opportunity to raise awareness in your community about the serious causes, effects, and remediations to men's sexualized violence. The event ends in the Cove where representatives from agencies such as Samaritan House, YWCA, and Fear2Freedom provide resources and information for action. Take part in this opportunity to spark conversation and inspire change in our community.
On March 10, from 3 - 4 p.m. the Jack E. & Bill D. Lingo Fitness Center will be hosting “Power in Motion,” a basic workout session focused on women’s fitness for all experience levels. Attendees will have the opportunity to win prizes.
On March 24, Off the Hook will be hosting “Lit-tle Women” to explore women in literature through history followed by a movie night at 7 p.m. in the Pearce Suite, located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.
On March 27,at 11 a.m., “Thank a Women” will take place in the Harbor Grill, honoring the incredible women in our lives by writing heartfelt cards to show appreciation, celebrate their achievements, and express gratitude for their impact.
At 12 p.m. on March 27, “Defining Womanhood: 75 Years of ‘The Second Sex’ and Its Impact Across Disciplines,” will take place in Blocker Auditorium. This panel celebrates the 75th anniversary of Simone de Beauvoir’s groundbreaking work, “The Second Sex,” examining its influence across disciplines. èßäÊÓƵ scholars from political science, psychology, sociology, English, and gender studies reflect on how the book first shaped them and its continuing relevance in understanding identity, power, and gender dynamics. By reflecting on themes such as “the Other,” existential freedom, and societal constructions of femininity, the panel highlights how “The Second Sex” challenges contemporary norms and illuminates paths toward equality.
èßäÊÓƵpanelists include: Associate Professor of Political Science Leslie Caughell, Ph.D.; Professor of Psychology Taryn Myers, Ph.D.; Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies Jennifer Slivka, Ph.D.; and Professor of Sociology Kathy Stolley, Ph.D.
On March 28, from 5-7 p.m., “Women’s History Month Trivia & Girl Dinner” will take place at the Harbor Grill located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Show off your trivia skills with Off the Hook and grab yourself some Girl Dinner on us!