McNeese grad keynotes Women’s Empowerment luncheon

McNeese grad keynotes Women’s Empowerment luncheon

Morgan Authement
Contributing Writer

One hundred years ago, women were not allowed the right to vote.  They had little to no say in the law; they were often swept under the rug when it came to decisions about their property and their very lives. 

Cut to modern day: Hilary Clinton has run for president, was a senator and Secretary of State. More and more women have entered male dominated professions such as politics and upper management in business, demonstrating that with the right empowerment, they have as much if not more to give than their male counterparts.

March is Women’s Empowerment Month in the United States.  It follows one of the most famous cultural and historic celebrations in the nation, Black History Month.  However, the impact of women on the cultural landscape is often overlooked.

The leaders at the Multicultural Office are working to change this.

“We wanted to do something different.  We represent different cultures, so why not recognize gender as a part of that as well?” said Kourtney Kennedy, event coordinator in the Multicultural Office.

This is the second year that the offices have hosted the event.  Kennedy expressed her hope that the event will grow and involve more students as the years pass.

The luncheon was designed to encourage discourse on women’s struggles, issues, and how far they have come.  During lunch, attendees watched a presentation of important milestones in women’s rights.

Barbary Hardy was invited to speak at the event.  Hardy is a nursing graduate from McNeese, and has made strides in her field.  She was the first African American nursing manager and Vice President of Nursing at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital

“Bend, but don’t break.  If you struggle, keep moving forward.  If you’re fine, don’t get complacent.  There is always something better,” Hardy said.

She encouraged women to always do their best and keep moving forward.  Women can empower themselves.

“It was nice to hear Ms. Hardy’s experiences,” said Dorian Lonon, an attendee.

Following the luncheon, attendees sat in a round table discussion on the progress that women have made, and how far they have to go.

“This event was very inspiring.  I hope more people will come and share next year, to create more of a network of women on campus,” said Nicole Williams, another attendee.