March is a time to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women throughout history – visionaries, pioneers, and leaders who have shaped our world. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to transformative works of literature, from artistic masterpieces to social movements that changed the course of history, women have left an enduring mark on every aspect of society.
Women’s History Month offers an opportunity to reflect on these achievements and recognize the resilience, creativity, and strength that define generations of trailblazers. It is a time to honor and celebrate the women who have paved the way and to spotlight those who continue to inspire progress today.
Throughout history, women have excelled, achieved, and challenged norms to make extraordinary contributions. Scientists like Marie Curie revolutionized our understanding of radioactivity, while writers like Maya Angelou and Cherríe Moraga gave voice to the struggles and triumphs of generations. Leaders such as Sojourner Truth and Ruth Bader Ginsburg fought tirelessly for justice, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire.
In every discipline – medicine, politics, science, arts, technology, education – women have driven innovation and progress. Their stories remind us of the power of perseverance, ingenuity, and courage.
Women continue to shape our present and future with groundbreaking work across industries. Whether in STEM fields, business leadership, creative arts, education, or public service, their contributions are making a lasting impact. Celebrating these achievements not only honors their legacy but also encourages future generations to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.
Some women from our university's history include:
- Maudelle Brown Bousfield, the first African American woman to graduate the University of Illinois in 1906 with a Mathematics degree, and later became the first female African American principal of a Chicago public school. Bousfield Hall in Ikenberry Commons is named in her honor.
- Lucy Flower, elected to the Board of Trustees in 1895 as the first female trustee and first elected female official in Illinois. She pushed for women’s gains at the University, including hiring female faculty, creating a Woman’s Department, and establishing a Dean of Women.
- The Alma Mater Statue, built in 1916, is a beloved symbol on campus. Lorado Taft and Rolan Conklin envisioned it as a tribute to academic women and a foster mother figure for all students throughout history.
- Nadya Mason, joined the faculty of the Department of Physics at the University of Illinois in 2005. She became the first African American woman to receive tenure in the College of Engineering.
For more information on the amazing accomplishments of women at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign throughout history, please visit: https://gec150.web.illinois.edu/
Upcoming events
As part of Women’s History Month, we hope that you have been engaged in events and activities across campus and the community that highlight the contributions of women, and we encourage you to check out the following events:
Latinas Talk Latinas
Launching their third series on March 6, this series introduces the lives of four Latinas as told by curators, historians, and educators across the Smithsonian. This third series will explore the stories of contemporary Latinas working in Spanish-language media and journalism. Learn more here.
Dish It Up/Lunch on Us: College Student Activism: Challenging Exploitation and Centering Student Voices
Monday, March 24, noon – 1:00 p.m. at the Women’s Resource Center (616 E Green St, Suite #213, Champaign)
Join us for our Dish It Up/Lunch on Us series at the Women’s Resources Center every 2nd & 4th Monday at noon, while listening to speakers, lecturers, and panelists explore a variety of topics at the intersection of gender and other social identities.
Women’s History Month: Native Perspectives
Tuesday, March 25, noon at the Women’s Resource Center (616 E Green St, Suite #213, Champaign)
Women’s History Month is an opportunity to highlight the significant roles and leadership positions Native women have historically held within their communities, often with substantial political power, serving as matriarchs, cultural keepers, healers, and vital contributors to tribal economies, a legacy frequently overlooked in mainstream narratives about women’s history. As such, the second program, “Women’s History Month: Native Perspectives” will be a moderated discussion involving visiting Indigenous scholar Dr. Urla Marcus (Northern Cheyenne/Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) and Native women at Illinois.
Her Vote, Her Voice: Women in Leadership
Wednesday, March 26, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the Campus Instructional Facility (CIF) Room 2039
Join us for an inspiring conversation with the mayors of Champaign and Urbana as we celebrate Women’s History Month and the impacts of women in politics. This event will highlight the challenges, achievements, and future of women in leadership, featuring personal insights and discussions on the importance of representation, advocacy, and civic engagement.
For more events hosted by the Women’s Resources Center and in partnership with organizations across the university, please visit their Women’s History Month calendar.
Let’s take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, learn from their stories, and continue to uplift and honor their contributions. Women’s History Month is not just about reflection – it’s about celebration, inspiration, and the ongoing recognition of the powerful role women play in shaping our world.