Celebrating Women's History Month 2025

Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor and to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society.

For 2025, the theme is “Moving Forward Together,” spotlighting “women educating and inspiring generations.” This theme is meant to highlight and support women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship and leadership to shape the minds and futures of all generations.

Let’s celebrate these trailblazing women in education with profiles that highlight their monumental contributions.

Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955)

A visionary educator and civil rights leader, Mary McLeod Bethune was born to parents who were formerly enslaved, yet she rose to become one of the most influential African American educators in history.

In 1904, she founded the Daytona Educational and Industrial School for Negro Girls, which eventually became Bethune-Cookman University. Bethune believed in the transformative power of education to uplift individuals and communities.

She served as an advisor to U.S. presidents, championing racial and gender equality. Bethune’s legacy endures as a reminder of the importance of persistence, community empowerment, and the belief that education is a fundamental right for all.

"The whole world opened to me when I learned to read." A testament to her belief in the transformative power of education.

Maria Montessori (1870–1952)

Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, revolutionized how children are taught with her child-centered educational approach.

She became the first woman in Italy to earn a medical degree, and her observations of children’s learning processes led her to develop the Montessori Method. This method emphasizes hands-on, self-paced, and experiential learning, which fosters independence and a love of discovery.

Montessori’s work transcended borders, influencing education systems worldwide. Today, Montessori schools continue her legacy, nurturing creativity and curiosity in learners across the globe.

"Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world." Reflecting her philosophy of fostering independence and creativity in learning.

Malala Yousafzai (1997–Present)

Malala Yousafzai is a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Born in Pakistan, Malala’s advocacy for girls’ education began when she was just a child.

Her voice gained international attention after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012. Malala co-authored the memoir I Am Malala and became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2014.

Through the Malala Fund, she continues to fight for education access for girls worldwide. Her relentless pursuit of equality reminds us of the power of one voice to ignite global change.

"Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world." Her unwavering belief in the power of education as a force for global change.

Gabriela Mistral (1889–1957)

Gabriela Mistral, born Lucila Godoy Alcayaga, was a Chilean poet, educator, and diplomat who became the first Latin American to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1945. Her work extended far beyond poetry; she was a passionate advocate for education and social reform.

Mistral played a pivotal role in shaping educational systems in Mexico and Chile, emphasizing the importance of accessible education for all, especially marginalized communities.

Her dedication to teaching and her belief in the transformative power of education continue to inspire educators worldwide.

"Many things we need can wait. The child cannot. Now is the time his bones are formed, his mind developed. To him, we cannot say tomorrow, his name is today." A powerful reminder of the urgency and importance of nurturing children.

Toni Morrison (1931–2019)

Although widely celebrated as a Nobel Prize-winning author, Toni Morrison's contributions to education are equally profound. Morrison worked as a teacher and editor, and her literary works, such as Beloved and Song of Solomon, have become foundational texts in academia.

As a professor at institutions like Howard University and Princeton University, she inspired countless students to explore themes of identity, race, and history. Morrison’s impact extends beyond her written words—her commitment to highlighting underrepresented voices in literature changed the educational landscape.

"If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down." Encouraging self-discovery and the pursuit of freedom, often shared in her mentorship roles.

Savitribai Phule (1831–1897)

A pioneer of women's education in India, Savitribai Phule defied societal norms of her time to become the first female teacher of her country.

Alongside her husband, Jyotirao Phule, she opened the first school for girls in 1848 in Pune. Savitribai dedicated her life to empowering marginalized communities through education, promoting social reform, and breaking barriers for women.

Her work laid the foundation for movements advocating for educational equity in India, making her a true trailblazer.

"Awake, arise, educate, smash traditions—liberate!" Capturing her revolutionary spirit in advocating for women's education and social reform.

Erin Gruwell (1969–Present)

Erin Gruwell, an American educator, became renowned for her transformative teaching methods with at-risk students at a Long Beach high school.

Her efforts to foster empathy and resilience in her students, many of whom faced immense challenges, became the basis for the Freedom Writers movement.

Gruwell encouraged her students to share their stories through journaling, which led to the publication of The Freedom Writers Diary.

She continues to inspire educators through her foundation and advocacy for innovative, inclusive teaching practices.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Elanor Roosevelt

These profiles and quotes remind us of the indelible impact education, mentorship, and leadership can have across generations. A guiding principle for inspiring generations to pursue their aspirations.

Warm regards,

B. M. Ward