Prudence Crandall bravely defied prevailing patterns of racial discrimination when she opened one of the first schools for African American girls in Connecticut in 1833.

Rachel Carson catalyzed the global environmental movement with her 1962 book Silent Spring.

Carrie Chapman Catt was a suffragist and peace activist who helped secure for American women the right to vote

Ruby Bridges was only six years old when she became the first African American to attend her elementary school.

Mary McLeod Bethune was one of the most important Black educators, civil and women’s rights leaders and government officials of the twentieth century.

Penelope Barker organized the Edenton Tea Party, the first recorded women’s political demonstration in America.

Abigail Adams was an early advocate for women's rights.

Catharine Esther Beecher was a nineteenth century teacher and writer who promoted equal access to education for women.