Council Connections – March 2015

Special Edition: Women’s History Month

By Emma Bunnell Rice, Phi (Collegiate National Vice President)

March is a month dedicated to women. It is Women’s History Month and March 8 was International Women’s Day. The purpose of Women’s History Month is to increase consciousness and knowledge of women’s history among the general public; to take one month of the year to remember the contributions of ordinary women who did extraordinary things. We celebrate this month in the hope that one day it will be impossible to teach or learn history without remembering those accomplishments.

In this context, I can’t help but think about our eight founders and the great honor they deserve during this month. They were early champions in a women’s movement that was just getting started in this country. Think about it: In 1899, women couldn’t vote and job opportunities were heavily limited. Almost none went to college, much less found an organization that celebrated the independence of women – but they did. They started a women’s organization based on the idea of women uplifting and teaching one another – on being Sisters. They expected great things of the women who joined, such as promoting the ethical, social, and cultural development of members. They did all these things without fear of stepping outside the box and starting something different.

Since joining Alpha Sigma Tau, I have always felt inspired by the vision and forward-thinking of our founders and the plans they made for this organization while still only college students themselves. Alpha Sigma Tau has given me some of the best role models I could ever have asked for. It has also given me the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of countless women who have helped make me the woman I am today and the woman I aspire to be.

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, I am reminded of the amazing women who have done so much to contribute to society, both historically and into the present-day. I am also reminded of the wonderful circle of women that I am so fortunate to have in my professional and personal life. When I think of the challenges many of these women have overcome, I am inspired, empowered, and energized! I challenge you to observe National Women’s History Month by celebrating and supporting a woman you know who has impacted your life or who, like our founders, is a champion for women in her community. Let them inspire and empower you!