Celebrating Women's History Month 2025

This March, we’re celebrating Women's History Month, including International Women's Day on March 8. These observances create intentional space to honor the impacts of women on our global society. The month’s 2025 theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," recognizes the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. 

This theme resonates with UW Tacoma’s mission of expanding college access to women and girls, especially those from communities historically excluded by higher education. I’ve seen firsthand how a college education can change lives, far beyond the person who receives a degree. In my family, I was the first to attend college; now, my nieces and cousins have or plan to do the same. And UW Tacoma remains committed to supporting women and girls in achieving college success — success that ripples throughout the South Sound and our state. 

We’re fortunate to be supported in our vision by strong community partners, such as the Milgard Women's Initiative, which provides mentoring opportunities for future generations of South Sound leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Our faculty and staff also lend their knowledge and skills to a future where all women and girls can thrive. I’m inspired by powerful voices like that of psychology professor Carolyn West, who raises awareness about intimate partner violence, demonstrating how public advocacy can advance women's safety and rights. 

I invite you to join me in celebrating Women's History Month in the coming weeks through various events on campus and in the community. Tonight (March 5), UW Tacoma will host Margo Okazawa-Rey presenting "If We Imagine a World for the Thrival' of All, We Can Build It." Join UW Tacoma alumna Akua Asare-Konadu (‘15) on March 12 for the Alumni Speaker Series, where she will share insights from her career in law, privacy, and cybersecurity.

In the broader Tacoma–Pierce County area, you can also attend a free production of "Home Front/War Front: Fly for Freedom," which highlights the remarkable stories and contributions of Black women in the World War II aeronautics industry. Additionally, the Tacoma Public Library is offering curated events, book lists, and other resources to commemorate the month.