By Alli Dayton, Staff Writer
Women’s History Month occurs throughout the month of March and is intended to celebrate the contributions of women throughout history who inspire the successes of modern women.
At Gettysburg College, Women’s History Month was celebrated through a variety of programs organized by the Office of Student Affairs and Greek Life, the Women’s Center, the Office of LGBTQIA+ Life, and the Office of Multicultural Engagement, including a showing of Wonder Woman 84, Women’s History Trivia Night, alumni spotlights, and the Womxn of Distinction Celebration.
Gettysburg College is fortunate to have numerous inspiring women professors and students whose accomplishments are highly impactful.
One of these women is Sociology Professor Connie Devilbiss. Throughout her career in Sociology, Devilbiss has “had an impact on reversing longstanding policies discriminating against women in the U.S. armed forces” and is currently researching “how Service Dogs and Therapy Dogs assist veterans and other people who are living with post-traumatic stress.”
During Women’s History Month, Devilbiss said that she makes “a sincere effort every year to learn more about the new ideas and inventions that have been created by women in history and in contemporary times.”
She also noted that it is important not to forget “what Women’s History Month stands for during the other 11 months of the year,” by honoring women on a regular basis.
Another accomplished professor at Gettysburg College is Sociology Professor Alecea Standlee. Standlee said that she is “particularly proud of having mentored students who have gone on to publish articles, attend graduate school, and make important contributions to Sociology.”
She prefers to celebrate Women’s History Month by “learning something new about women’s history or women’s accomplishments” during the month.
Students like Sydney Kaplan ’22 also have meaningful achievements to share. Kaplan, the co-president of Students Against Sexual Assault (SASA), said that she is committed to “raising awareness about and eradicating sexual violence and misconduct both on and off campus.”
Kaplan continues her goal of awareness by “honoring and reflecting upon the women who have worked so hard for future generations,” while “striving to make the world a more inclusive and compassionate place” in her own life.
Similarly, Julia Dortch ’24, is proud of her work as “the only female on a panel talking about school safety” in her hometown of Palmetto, Florida.
In the month of March, Dortch “remembers all of the important, strong, and confident women” in her life, such as her “mom, boss, and female friends at Gettysburg College.”
It is clear that the women at Gettysburg College are focused on making positive changes in their communities, which they hope will motivate other women to do the same.
Devilbiss reminds young women at Gettysburg College to “be mindful of lessons both inside and outside of the classroom” and to “have a strong ethical compass and stand up for what you believe.”
Standlee echoed Devilbiss’ sentiment, saying that students should “speak up and speak out” about the topics they are passionate about, especially during Women’s History Month.
