In 2020, the United States celebrated the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th amendment, advancing women’s right to vote. With that milestone in mind, Emma Willard School dedicated this edition of Signature magazine to the recognition of those in the Emma community who have continued to provide visionary leadership over the past 10 decades since that landmark event.
Head of School Jenny Rao shares, “This issue is a celebration of progress and generational change. We mark and honor the 100th anniversary of the passing of the 19th Amendment in the midst of a global pandemic and long-standing turbulence around racial justice….I’m heartened to see the decades of activism that have brought change and growth to our institutions and our homelands. Just like the passing of the 19th Amendment was a point in time, there is more work to be done. For most Emma Willard School graduates, this work that remains to be addressed is the work of our lives.”
We invite you to explore the complex legacy of Elizabeth Cady Stanton (1832) and the national impact of the League of Women Voters. Reflect on each decade of visionary leadership as you explore the stories of Christina Bellamy ’59, Jane Fonda ’55, Tonnie Katz ’62, Jane Wales ’66, Franciena King ’68, The Class of 1970, Kirsten Gillibrand ’84, Leslie Butler-MacFadyen ’94, Sierra Crane Murdoch ’05, Laura Gerrard ’11, Sarah Foster ’17, and Gabby P. ‘23.
