With March being Women’s History Month, I’ve been spending some time lately reflecting on the inspirational women in my life, and I’d love to hear from you, too! Which women have inspired you?
While many names come to mind, today I’d like to focus on three women who have been driving forces behind my public service: my mother, my mother-in-law, and Madeleine Albright.
Mary Dean, my mother, where to begin? To say that I am blessed to be one of her seven children is an understatement. My mom was balanced and tenacious, raising my siblings and me with boundless love and confidence in our abilities. Like many parents, she believed in her children so earnestly, so endlessly; for that faith and much more, I am forever grateful to her.
Joan Cunnane, my late mother-in-law, was a suffragette’s daughter, an extraordinary cook, and a spitfire throughout every fiber of her being. As an organizer and pro-choice feminist at a time before most Catholics would even mouth the phrase, Joan had a fierce passion for service to others. She even went back to school in her fifties to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse.
Madeleine Albright, our country’s first woman Secretary of State, is the final name I’d like to lift up today. A woman of deep intelligence and gravitas, Secretary Albright taught me so much about being a public servant – about having the courage to lead with the heart, enter a room with confidence and good humor, and stand up for my values.
Team, this Women’s History Month I’d love to hear about the inspirational women in your life – will you tell me more about them here?
Today and every day, I thank you for your support. I’m looking forward to reading about the inspirational women in your life!
Warmly,
Mad