Joanne L. Symons Speakers Series: Women's Voices Being Heard
"Within each of us is the ability to transcend death; whether it be through submission to God's will, through our progeny, through an act that will affect lives beyond our deaths, through the creation of beauty of the affirmation of universal truth, through the enrichment of lives of others, through love."
—Joanne L. Symons, 1988
A state legislator, state party chairperson, advisor to presidential and vice presidential candidates, a national women's rights strategist and women's health innovator, Joanne Symons worked throughout her career to facilitate and encourage women's voices to be heard. She believed that women should follow their dreams and strive to reach their professional and personal potential. As a wife, mother, grandmother, friend, colleague and mentor, Joanne offered the strength of her convictions combined with a non-judgmental, open mind, heart and ear to the people whose lives she touched.
A group of friends, colleagues, and family have formed the Joanne L. Symons Memorial Committee. Through their partnership with the National Woman's Party in advancing a commitment of Joanne Symons that women's voices are heard, an annual speakers series was inaugurated on March 23, 2004.
The Committee is also piloting a mentoring program for young professional women and making plans for a women's history research scholarship program. Through these programs, the Joanne L. Symons Memorial Committee seeks to reach out to young women and enrich their lives as Joanne did.
Joanne L. Symons Speakers
- Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, 2004
- Dr. Johnnetta Cole, 2006
- Judy Chicago, 2007