Written Works Contest

The theme for Women's History Month 2013 was "Women Making History Everyday." We wanted to engage our community and get them thinking about not just the well-known historical women who have made a difference in the world, but the everyday women who we know who impact our lives in large and small ways. We asked students and faculty to submit written pieces about the women who have made a difference in their lives, families, and communities, and would like to thank all of the students and faculty who submitted written works. Read a selection of these works below.

 

works by faculty and staff:

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Not many students would boast that their life began in a high school classroom. For most teenagers, life ends when school begins. I, too, must admit that for most of my life I felt immense dread at the beginning of every school day. This ended in the span of a single class. To all appearances, this one class was in no way a special one. I had attended classes with Miss Ashley Perry, a Ridgeway High School English teacher, many times before, but they were nothing compared to what I was about to experience. The topic: The Great Gatsby and "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock."

Miss Perry discussed these two iconic pieces of literature with zeal, as though she had met and spoken with Jay Gatz, as if she steered the very vessel of Fitzgerald's mind. No other teacher had ever displayed such love for a class' subject matter. She was my first encounter with a true teacher. I went home that night, enlightened, but completely unaware of the true effect Miss Perry had had on me. I sat down with Gatsby and "Prufrock," poured over every word with a passion I had never before had for school work, and out of me poured the assignment Miss Perry had given: Gatsby and "Prufrock," a comparative essay. When this paper was returned to me—with a big, red nine emblazoning the top—I was stunned. I had written many papers in English class, but this was my very first perfect score. To this day, I have never felt more proud or deserving of a grade. It was a grade which instilled in me the belief that I could be good at writing, received on a paper which convinced me I could enjoy it, written on a book which converted me to the standing of "writer."

Miss Perry taught me that one in a million can make a difference—one person, one class, one book, one paper can change the world, even if only in a small way. She made me believe that one writer, like myself, could raise whole new worlds into existence, and that this could have purpose if one person was changed by it.

There she was, sweet Miss Perry, teaching class like she did every day, and did far better than she probably imagined, unaware that she was stitching together the beginnings of someone else's history. To her, I owe my life's one, great passion. As I learned from her, life begins with passion.

-Anna S.

My Aunt Holly Ruth may not know the extent to which she has impacted my life, so this is my way of "rising up" and calling her "blessed" before others. Over the years, I've stubbornly held on to my self-doubt and insecurities, despite her consistent attempts to infuse in me an ownership of myself and my capabilities. With each new triumph or accomplishment, Aunt Holly would always tell me, "I'm always impressed, but never surprised." But I don't think her belief and confidence in me were in vain. The more I grow, the more I realize how much time I'm wasting by not embracing for myself the confidence she has in my person and capabilities.

Aunt Holly has encouraged me not to ever let anyone tell me that I "can't" do something. "They may tell you that you 'shouldn't' do something, that they don't want you to do something, but don't ever let anyone tell you that you 'can't' do something. If you want to fly to the moon, go for it. And if you can't...well, then you won't be there!" In other words, you find out for yourself whether you can or cannot do something. Don't ever let anyone else decide that for you.

As a wife and mother for over 20 years and a university voice instructor for nearly 20 years, this woman has spent her life pouring into others her warmth and courage and strengthening her loved ones and students to have confidence in their abilities and appreciation for themselves. But as involved and active as she is, her priorities are unmistakable. Her husband, my wonderful Uncle John, and her two daughters, Talley and Ian, always, always come first. And her extended family is also always a top priority. After that, she takes care of all the rest of the world, and once the lives of all her "punk'ins" have been poured into, she'll finally take a moment to replenish herself with a cup of lavishly creamed and liberally sugared hot tea, pop in the latest BBC version of Pride and Prejudice, and gleefully knit or make jewelry for hours on end (the products of which, of course, are always given away to others afterwards). Her pleasure in the sanctity of "home" coupled with her wanderlust for Scotland is both infectious and refreshing. And beneath all of this, the deep undercurrent of her belief and faith in God runs through the many facets of her sparkling life.

So, here's to Holly Ruth Gale, my aunt without whom life and tea would never be the same.

-Abigail G.

Dr. Dottie Joiner has always supported my professional and academic achievements. She provides the time to offer suggestions and words of encouragement with my research or academic ideas. For example, when I approached her with the idea of co-leading University of Memphis undergraduate and graduate students on a study abroad experience to Italy, Dr. Joiner offered many suggestions and helpful tips. In addition, when I see her at professional conferences, she always asks about my current research and ways to strengthen it.

-Bryna B.

I am writing to honor my supervisor, Joanna Curtis, Director of Major Gifts at the UofM. When Joanna first came to campus in 2008, we were peers. She quickly moved up the ranks and ultimately became my supervisor, which I have really enjoyed. Her current position is a newly created position that oversees all of the University's front-line fundraisers. She has done an amazing job in a short period of time of creating a solid program and a culture of leadership and integrity. She incorporates teamwork, strategy, thoughtfulness, and humor into our work. She is always supportive and responsive. She holds her staff accountable without being a micromanager. Joanna is also an incredible advisor – always willing to work with me through a tough situation and encourage me. I admire her commitment to the University of Memphis and to our city of Memphis. In addition to her major work obligations, she recently completed her Master's in Public Administration. She encouraged me to do the same and I am about half way through the program. With her support, I will earn my Master's degree! Joanna is also married and a mother of two young children. With her busy schedule, she still makes time for her employees and that really means a lot. I admire her tremendously and am delighted to have the opportunity to recognize her in some way.

-Marianne H.

 

In recognition of Women's History Month, I would like to honor Dr. Mary Stockwell and Dr. Ruth Wallis Herndon.

Mary Stockwell was my teacher, advisor, and mentor when I was an nontraditional undergraduate. Going back to school at age 32 was overwhelming. Mary taught one of the first courses I took upon starting my coursework. I went from overwhelmed to overjoyed at the prospect of coming to class every week. To this date, she is still the one of the finest lecturers I have ever heard. She took a sincere interest in my academic career and encouraged me to go to graduate school before I even really knew that such a thing was possible for someone like me. She wrote letters, nominated me for scholarships and assistantships, and supported me at every turn. Once I completed my MA in History, she invited me back to my alma mater to teach--my first time in the classroom as an instructor! Although I was an adjunct, she considered me a part of the department faculty and gave me opportunities to serve the history department and the university. She taught me about both the joys and pitfalls of academia, but never stopped encouraging me to follow the path I had chosen.

Ruth Wallis Herndon was my teacher, advisor and mentor throughout graduate school. She taught me how to be a scholar, a teacher, and a colleague, always stressing that each informed the other and shared equal importance in my development as a professional in academia. She is a true role model in each of these areas. In her classroom preparation, grading, and mentoring of students; her command of committee work; and the deep attention to her own scholarship, I have never seen anyone so absolutely pour themselves into their work the way Ruth does. Even since I have completed my doctoral studies, Ruth continues to mentor me and encourage me in my teaching, research and writing, meeting with me whenever I am back in town to critique my latest project while asking me to critique hers. Through her, I learned the importance of such collaboration and cooperation. Ruth's transparency regarding the trials and tribulations of the academic world is one of the most valuable gifts I have received. When I left graduate school I not only knew that I was well-prepared for an academic career, but that I had someone to turn to whenever self-doubt started to creep in.

Mary Stockwell and Ruth Wallis Herndon are each exemplary women and historians. They are truly making history every day in their own right and through the influence they have on their students. I am privileged to have been able to call them each teacher, mentor, and friend.

-Christine E.

works by students:

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As a student athlete, I am required to attend study hall each week. Megan always helps me. She is the first person that says "hi" to me when I walk in. She puts so much effort into assisting student athletes and takes pride in making sure they get the most out of their education.

~Austin C.

My grandmother started a group to help any parent deal with the loss of a child because she lost a child herself and she knows the pain involved. Even with the loss of her husband and one of her six children, she continues to live courageously and happily.
~Halle U.

In high school, I had an English teacher who changed my life. She taught and still teaches her students ways to love learning, and she taught me about life. She gives students the means and encouragement to go out and make history of their own.
~Shellee H.

My wife is a nurse and she helps people every day. She recently revived a young man that had died in a building lobby. She displays compassion and empathy to total strangers on a daily basis.
~Aaron B.

Because of her determination throughout college and her career, she was recognized as one of the University of Memphis' Top 100 Influential Women. As a graduate of the business school, she has pushed me to believe that I can do anything.
~Shelby S.

My grandmother's dream of a college degree did not come quickly. After witnessing 3 sons attend college and enduring 20 years of hard work and determination, she graduated at the top of her class at the University of Memphis. She went on to obtain her MA and Doctorate in Education. She lived an exemplary life.
~Jami P.

She was more than an educator, but a motivator, encourager, counselor. There was not one day that could walk in East High School with a sad face or having a bad day because she was there to encourage you to make it and do better.
~Jasmine W.

They have been partners for almost twenty years. When I met them I knew they were a couple—loving and supporting one another without question. They said that being a lesbian couple did not define them but added to who they are.
~Terri P.

My anatomy teacher though that discussing safe sex was an important topic and too important to let go. She continued to discuss safe sex with her classes even when the school administration disagreed. She was fired. She was trying to do what was right.
~Alex H.

My high school English teacher made a difference in my life. She encouraged me to attend college. She would always tell me how much potential I had and encouraged me to better myself and my surroundings.
~Charnita H.

When she was diagnosed with MS, they told her she may not be able to walk well or work. My mother didn't let that stop her. She continued to teach school and provide for our family. She has not only touched my life but made a difference in the lives of several students who needed extra care.
~Kayla F.

She overcame poverty, and abuse. Born in the most poverty-stricken county in Mississippi, she overcame the negatives. She earned her GED at the age of 32 and her college degree at 37. She believed in herself and set an example for me that education is the key to economic, spiritual, and emotional stability.
~Crystal B.

She juggled raising her children with attending college and working. She became a well-educated women who is respected in her field of law. She continues to give back to her community.
~Anthony J.

She is a young woman I deeply respect for her dedication as a doula. She recognized the need to challenge the status quo of hospital births and unnecessary medical interventions. She helps women understand their options.
~Elizabeth A.

My grandmother and great aunt were refugees from Burma when the Japanese invaded in WWII. They walked overland into India over a week. They were then active in the Indian Independence movement.
~Sanjeer J.

I have always thought I was inspired by women of renown, but I have come to realize that fame does not inspire greatness as much as an example of love. No other woman has shown this to me more than my mother.
~Anne M.

She always stressed the importance of raising your children and giving them the support they need. I can hear her voice in my head now: "no one is going to treat your kids like you do."
~Venice A.

Mrs. L. was the only teacher that ever challenged me academically. When I was in fifth grade, the staff wanted to have me medicated, but she helped funnel my energies into more constructive arenas.
~M'Sada C.

My grandmother is an inspiration. She has always been a great role model for me. She is the pianist for my church, and has been for over 25 years. Ever since I started playing the flute back in the 6th grade, she has helped me with my music.
~Joseph C.

My wife, a first-generation immigrant, has overcome many personal and professional challenges. She has met them with a sense of dignity, perseverance and passion.
~Clint C.

My mom raised two children on an adjunct professor's pay; we both grew up to finish college, be employed, and go to graduate school.
~Anonymous

My sister fearlessly works to reverse the bad reputation that pit bulls have simply because of their breed. Through her work with shelters and rescue groups, she has helped many find loving homes.
~Hannah G.

Journalist and podcast co-host Allison Kilkenny has spent the last few years traveling the nation, covering stories like Occupy Wall Street and the Chicago Teachers Union strike. She has challenged me to think critically.
~Jason S.

My mother, a chief in the United States Navy, will forever be a part of history as the first woman to receive two "Sailor of the Year" awards.
~Keirston M

My grandmother, a middle-school teacher, buys extra school uniforms and keeps them in the classroom for students whose parents cannot afford them.
~Jillisa B.

My grandmother was the first female counselor at an all-male drug and alcohol facility. She fought every day for those who couldn't fight for themselves because they were suffering from addiction.
~Seleena G.

My sister-in-law has made a difference by volunteering at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and taking care of my nephew who is a patient there.
~Anonymous

My best friend is a teacher and a musician. She has mastered the art of balance as she works a "practical job" but also pursues creative endeavors.
~Anonymous

My mother was an orphan in a country where children were not protected. She found a way to study and eventually opened her own company before emigrating. She worked until the last day of her life, teaching me that there are no obstacles to achievement.
~Natalie A.

My mother was a single parent who worked full time and went to school at night. Eventually, we had a house of our own, she was promoted to a respected and well-paying position, and she graduated at the top of her class from the University of Memphis.
~Anna B.

My twelfth-grade English teacher used every opportunity to stress the importance of knowing our Black history and related the readings to our everyday lives.
~Delandrias M.

My mother is a pediatrician and has contributed greatly to the city of Memphis. She would see patients at little cost if a family couldn't afford a doctor's visit. Giving back is important to her.
~Walter W.

The director of the Refugee Empowerment Program provides assistance to newcomer families through tutoring programs and ESL courses. She advocates for them in schools, emergency rooms, and even in jails. She speaks out against any discrimination of refugees in Memphis.
~Marie M.

A woman who has influenced my life is a neurologist, a mother of four, and a board member of the Memphis Islamic Center. She advised me to be active in my community in order to be happy.
~Jumana M.

My hero is an 83-year-old woman from the Memphis Figure Roller Skating Club who teaches adults and children how to skate without falling. She has inspired me to be my best self and to never hold back.
~Kate C.

My mom was a single mother of five and had two jobs. Our fathers did not give us a dime. Regardless of the negative, my mother put us through school efficiently. She is my hero and one of the strongest women I know.
~Ricardo C.

My mother's strength to financially support our family and cook dinner at the end of the day inspires me to work hard and never back down from any obstacle.
~Samuel L.

When I was in high school, my mother went to school for real estate. Three years later, she became one of the most successful agents in her office and the entire county.
~Avery W.

My source of motivation is my mother because of her 25 years in the Navy and her ability to raise three successful children and challenge the status quo.
~Anonymous

With her beauty, grace, and wisdom, she has taught me how to live a life complete with love and happiness.
~Morgan P.

If I can say I am half the woman my mother is, I will have a life to be proud of.
~Elizabeth S.

She is my best friend, my mentor, and the one who raised me. I am the man that I am now because of her.
~Kevin D.

It is a shame that society has determined to restrict the celebration of a woman like her to a single month in the year. She works just as hard, if not harder, than any man.
~Keegan S.

My grandmother sacrificed her goals during her golden years to ensure we had our bare necessities met. She is my hero, my confidant, my best friend, and the main reason that I am who I am today.
~Christopher P.

When she was 21 she had 3 children. Many people, even her own family, said that she wouldn't amount to anything. Their doubt gave her motivation. She now has several degrees, makes good money, and her situation gives me the drive that I need to complete college...
~Sierra H.

She said: 'Show all the boys that girls can be smart.'
~Jamilah L.

Growing up, she taught me that being a woman should not hinder you from achieving your goals.
~Elyza M.

Whether it is taking dinner to a sick church member, or sending someone an encouraging card, she never forgets those who are in need.
~ Lindsay W.

When I get to meet her students and they tell me how wonderful she is, all I can think is 'I know.'
~Alicia K.

She works, volunteers, and takes care of her family. She donates her time and money. Just by being herself, she makes a difference every day.
~Allie L.

I met her at a bus stop. She was a struggling, yet devoted mother. She worked two jobs and was a student. She represents all the women trying to better themselves and have a greater quality of life. She gave me hope for my future.
~Kim W.

I first saw her in the cotton fields with my mother. I do not understand how she escaped cotton picking and became a teacher. At that particular time, she was the only African American woman in our small Southern town teaching.
~Mattie F.

She works cleaning offices early in the morning so that she can be back home in time to make us breakfast and take my brother to school. Our entire lives she has sacrificed everything she has in order to provide for us.
~Brittany P.

She is my friend, my companion, my mentor, my mother, my everything.
~Daisy C.

Although she may never make our history books, she holds many honorable qualities that are associated with the leaders who have shaped our country and the heroes who defend it.
~Gabby C.

She grew up loving dance. When she was just 16 years old she was diagnosed with polio. It caused her to have to use a wheelchair, cane, or crutch her entire life, but that didn't stop her. She stayed strong.
~Ally K.

No, my mother is not a politician or someone famous, but she is an important part of my history. She has made me into the person I am today and she inspires me daily.
~Domenique P.

Every woman who dedicates herself to raising a child is shaping future generations. Without my mom, without your mom, our society would cease moving forward.
~Andrew D.

She has a hearty laugh, crooked smile, sparkling sea eyes, and fiery red hair that can only represent her strong spirit and warm, forgiving heart.
~Maggie M.

My Grandmother has made a difference for me. As she got older she became legally blind. She is still able to do everything anyone else can do & through this she still has a good sense of humor. This just shows me even when life pushes me down it's ok, and I can continue to go on.
~Sharon J.

My mom literally sacrificed her life for me. I am from Serbia. 6 months after I was born the war began & my mom was held at gun point & forced into a concentration camp. A year & a half later Serbians were lined up & being shot one by one. My mom was next. With me in her arms she prayed to God & pleaded with them not to shoot me, to take her. Before they were able to shoot we were saved. She is an amazing human being.
~Zana V.

I would like to recognize my teacher, Dr. Cheryl B. She goes way beyond the typical teacher. She will do anything to make sure you're on the correct path & give you as much, or any information to get you where you need to be, and encourages her students to reach their full potential.
~Christy W.

Ms. Angela R., the mother of my friend, makes a difference. She has started an organization to reduce infant mortality in Memphis & also helps pregnant teenage girls.
~Genina N.

Someone who has made a difference in my life is my mom. She is a veteran of the United States Navy. She has inspired me to become an officer in the Navy. Her commitment & determination allows her to accomplish any goal. All the qualities my mother possesses are those that are necessary to have a successful career in the U.S. Armed Forces. For these reasons, I admire her.
~Isabella G.

There is one women in particular that I feel is very honorable—my Stepmom. What makes her so honorable is that she took me & my siblings in during a custody battle & treated us like we were her own. I wouldn't trade this lady for the world.
~Jessica R.

The most important woman in my life is my mother. She has sacrificed so much for our family by working long hours at a night job & still taking care of her family. She manages to do all of this while fighting cancer. She is the most incredible woman I know.
~Robert F.

My mother has been a huge inspiration to me & many others. She was forced to quit school at 15 to work & support her family. She met my dad & moved to America. She completed her Associate's Degree & now works as a teacher's assistant. She does things like providing a winter coat for one of her students who did not have one & could not afford it. The world is a better place because of my mother.
~Aoife W.

My mother is a pillar of strength. While raising me & my brother by herself she managed to reach her goal of becoming a nurse. She takes care of veterans at the VA hospital.
~Caleb H.

My mother is my role model. She has been working in the same job since she was 17 years old. She started working at McDonalds as a crew member & now at the age of 48 she is working as an Operations Director for the corporate office. This reminds me that no matter what you set your mind to you can accomplish anything.
~Taylor C.

There was a time in my life when I didn't really know who I was, but I walked into my tenth grade math class & met Mrs. B. She was the one I went to when I had family problems or just needed a shoulder to cry on. When I started to give up on myself she brought me back. She is a real inspiration.
~Antoneshia H.

Suzanne is my stepmother. She has no real reason to do the things she does, but she has truly been a mother figure in my life. She has three sons of her own & even adopted two girls. It is because of her or house is a home.
~Jack R.

There is one person I know that greatly makes a difference & her name is Melanie. She is a 40 year old waitress where I work & has a huge heart. She encourages everyone she encounters to appreciate our troops. Her son is one of them. She knows & fears that he might get hurt, but she continues to smile & make a difference in others' lives.
~Gidgette G.

I come from Ethiopia where life is a day-to-day struggle & women depend on men to live. My father was a political prisoner for 19 years. Stigma for a woman with a husband in prison is high & my family lived in extreme poverty. My mother had no community support. She raised two boys alone. She has proven her strength & character. She always tells me & my brother that I will be a doctor & he will be an engineer. My brother is now a mechanical engineer & I am pursing a Doctorate in African Studies. I hope to keep her & my dream alive!
~Simeneh G.

I am honoring my one & only sister because she managed to make the Dean's List at TSU, which no one thought was possible due to her dark & tragic past. She has always been there for me for anything I needed.
~Rashaun W.

One of the most important people in my life is my Grandmother. Since my mom was a single parent she was basically my dad. She always provided me with wisdom & a life experience story. She encouraged me to be everything I can be.
~Rodrigo B.

My preacher's wife from Mississippi was a very strong woman. She loved people & educating the younger people at our church. Although she passed away she left her name in so many different people's hearts.
~Aneadra P.

My partner Kayla is the greatest & most influential person in my life. She has not only supported me in every way, but is forging her own bright future in neuropsychology. She is getting her master's degree in Baltimore & she is the leading author on studies regarding PTSD therapy in her department, working closely with professionals of high esteem. I am graced to call my partner the woman who has inspired me to be a better human being.
~Kyle R.

I was born to two teenage parents. To allow both of my parents to go to college & build a life my great grandmother decided to raise me. She also raised herself & her siblings in a small town in Mississippi. She married & raised her own kids & even though her oldest son died & her husband passed away early on she never complained. She raised all her kids & their kids & beat a battle with cancer. She is my inspiration & motivation.
~Eric G.

As an undergraduate I was lost. I was supposed to pick a major, know what I wanted to study. My advisor was the person I turned to for help. She encouraged my curiosity, supported my decisions, & eventually became my mentor. Because of her, I continued to further my interests & my education—leading me to the Master's degree I am earning today.
~Jody S.