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During March, we celebrate National Women’s History Month! The observance first began in 1987 when the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women organized a “Women’s History Week” in Santa Rosa, California. Many women who have contributed with scientific, educational, artistic, business, or political efforts are recognized during this time. 

Miami University’s first Black graduate, Nellie Craig Walker, is a woman who deserves recognition.

The History of Nellie Craig Walker Hall

Nellie Craig Walker was a trailblazer who paved the way for many young Black men and women pursuing an education at Miami University. She graduated in 1905 while facing several challenges but was determined to succeed. In Nellie Craig Walker’s honor, the university later named a campus building after her.

Walker’s legacy continues to inspire, especially during this year’s Black History Month. Her great-granddaughter, Melanie Walker, associate dean of finance and administration for Case Western Reserve University’s School of Law, also spoke at an event on campus to honor her impact.

MIAMI Women Hawk Tank event — supporting future history-makers

Each year, Miami University Advancement’s MIAMI Women organization hosts the MIAMI Women’s Leadership Symposium, an event dedicated to empowering women to get involved while also shaping a better future for Miami. This symposium brings together alumni, faculty, students, and staff to support their professional development, allowing them to participate in workshops, keynote presentations, and panel discussions. 

Jacqueline Johnson, Miami University archivist and principal librarian, who attended the 2024 symposium, shared her overall thoughts on the experience:

“It was a great event,” Johnson said. “I’m always inspired when I learn about the research projects that the MIAMI Women Giving Circle supports. Listening to the experiences and voices of facilitators and panelists as they shared their stories motivated me to continue to conduct research that enriches and engages others.” 

This year’s speakers include women making history, such as Dr. Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins ’74 — a Western College for Women alumna who served as the first Black woman president of the League of Women Voters of the United States — Explorers Club Fellow Rachel Rudwall ’08, and others. 

The symposium will take place on May 2 at Armstrong Student Center. Register by April 18 (free for students). 

2024 Hawk Tank Recipient Spotlight

The MIAMI Women Giving Circle is an innovative approach to philanthropy. It allows participants to impact the university’s initiatives directly. Last year, the Giving Circle awarded $111,011 in grants to help fund nine university-wide projects during the annual Hawk Tank event — a competition inspired by the TV show “Shark Tank.” 

One of the 2024 grant recipients was alumna Toni Shorter Smith, visiting assistant professor of Arts Management and Arts Entrepreneurship, who received funding for “Breaking Bad: Moving Toward Transformation Through the Arts” — a day of workshops and performances by Black artists. These artists would each represent their own discipline, including things such as dance styles, writing, and visual arts. When discussing her idea, Toni highlighted that the arts can bring people together, and it can also expand culture. 

By celebrating pioneers like Nellie Craig Walker, creating opportunities for leadership, and funding initiatives like “Breaking Bad,” Miami University continues to inspire and motivate its community of women to be a force for innovation.