HERstories

HERstories: Celebrating Women’s Impact

Discover inspiring stories of leadership, resilience and legacy during UD’s inaugural women’s event series in spring 2025.

 

Join us for any of the following HERstories events: 

 

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Advancing Advocacy and Research on Gender-Based Violence 

Monday, March 3 | Noon-1 p.m. | Virtual 

Learn about research conducted by the Center for the Study & Prevention of Gender-Based Violence, including student-driven research projects and their alignment with initiatives shaping advocacy and policy in Delaware.   

register

Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Lessons in Leadership 

Delaware Office of Women’s Advancement and Advocacy


Sponsored in partnership with the Delaware Office of Women's Advancement & Advocacy & UD Women's Leadership Initiative. 

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Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Reception & Lecture
Thursday, March 6 | 5-7:30 p.m. | Lerner Atrium

During this enlightening panel discussion with esteemed leaders in advocacy and social activism, discover their personal journeys, the challenges they’ve faced and the strategies they’ve used to drive meaningful change in our communities.

register

 

Details

Panelists include:

  • Maria Matos, President and CEO of the Latin American Community Center (LACC) in Wilmington, with over 35 years of nonprofit leadership
  • Drew Fennell, Executive Vice President of Social Contract, former Chief Officer for Strategic Communication and Development at ChristianaCare, Chief of Staff during the Markell Administration and longtime advocate for criminal justice reform
  • Bebe Coker, a legendary activist with over 50 years of service, whose work spans poetry, theatre, social services and civic engagement to combat systemic racism

The panel will be moderated by Wendy Smith, Dana J. Johnson Professor of Management and Faculty Director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative at UD, with a discussion by Anne Boylyn, Professor Emerita of History and Women and Gender Studies at the University of Delaware, an award-winning scholar and author.

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Elevating Equity: Breaking the Glass Ceiling

Thursday, April 10 | 5-8 p.m. | Lerner Atrium 

Join us for an empowering panel discussion with trailblazing leaders who have shattered barriers and championed equity in Delaware. Through their experiences and achievements, these exceptional women will share insights on leadership, resilience and breaking barriers to create opportunities for others. 

Register

 

Details

Panelists include: 

  • Paulette Sullivan Moore, Delaware’s first African American female attorney and a pioneer in public service, law, and advocacy for domestic violence survivors.

  • Colonel Melissa A. Zebley, the first woman to serve as Superintendent of the Delaware State Police, leading the state’s largest law enforcement agency with over 1,000 personnel. 

  • The Honorable Jan R. Jurden, President Judge of the Superior Court of Delaware and a leader in advancing mental health initiatives within the justice system.

  • Representative Stephanie T. Bolden, a dedicated public servant and longtime educator whose major goals have been the protection of vulnerable populations including senior citizens and children in foster care.

Take advantage of this opportunity to hear from Delaware’s leading changemakers as they share their stories, experiences and the impactful work they’re doing to drive positive change in our communities. 

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Grace Under Pressure

Thursday, May 1 | 5-8 p.m. | Lerner Atrium 

Join us for an extraordinary panel discussion featuring accomplished leaders who have excelled under pressure while making remarkable contributions in their fields. Panelists will share their insights on leadership, resilience and driving meaningful change in their communities.

register

 

Details

Panelists include:

  • Jennifer Cohan, Former CEO of Leadership Delaware and previous Delaware Secretary of Transportation, whose career spans over three decades of innovative public service.

  • Rear Admiral Marianne Blackburn “Mimi” Drew, the first female line Rear Admiral in the Naval Reserve, whose groundbreaking military career set new standards for leadership and service.

  • Dr. Theresa del Tufo, educator, organizational consultant and advocate for women and individuals with disabilities, known for her impactful work in public policy and vocational services.

  • Dr. Lynn Snyder-Mackler, globally renowned physical therapist and researcher, whose pioneering work in sports medicine has brought international recognition to Delaware.

  • Deborah D. Wicks, former Superintendent of Smyrna School District, celebrated for her transformative leadership in education and community engagement.
     

Be inspired as visionary leaders share their experiences, challenges, and the strategies that have shaped their impactful journeys.
 

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Preservation of Family Memories
Thursday, May 8 | 1-5 p.m. | Winterthur Museum & Gardens | $30

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Winterthur’s Conservation Lab, followed by a light private reception in the Visitor Center. Your registration also includes a two-day general admission ticket to the museum, garden and library. 

register

 


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