Members of the Criminal Justice Department at Grambling State University held the second annual Women’s History Celebration in the Betty E. Smith Nursing Building auditorium Tuesday, April 8.
The theme of the celebration was “celebrating women of character, courage and commitment”. The program honored prestigious women, known both locally and nationwide.
The honorees in their own way have made contributions to Grambling State University. They included: Doris Robinson, Dr. Helen Richards-Smith, Mildred Moss, Dr. Mildred Gallot, Pinkie Wilkerson, Dr. Betty E. Smith, Thelma Williams and Helen, Godfrey-Smith.
Criminal justice majors as well as other students were present at the ceremony where Tari T. Bradford served as the guest speaker. Bradford, a Shreveport native and Southern University graduate, spoke on the hardships she faces daily as a woman as well as obstacles she has overcome in her own life.
Being an example to women of color, Bradford gave words of encouragement to the audience of men and women who grasped onto every word.
“I learned a lot,” said Joseph James, sophomore business major from Franklinton. “I have a deeper respect for women.”
Other women who were recognized were Rosa Parks, Hillary Clinton, Mae Jemison and Maya Angelou just to name a few. These women have made contributions to women’s rights with courageous actions and have permanently etched their name in the history of distinguished women.
“Every woman is powerful in their own way,” said Brittnay Stephens, a criminal justice major from Las Vegas.
This event was important because it gave students an opportunity to here some women’s success stories.
“It means a lot to me but I think people don’t appreciate women’s history.”