WHM 2025

Dear all,

I am honored and thrilled to celebrate Women’s History Month—a time to reflect on the remarkable contributions of women, past and present, and to acknowledge the trailblazers who have shaped history, our fields of study, our department, and our division. I am proud to say that during my tenure as Chair and Dean, I have hired and collaborated with outstanding women students, staff, and professors. 

This month is not just about remembering the past; it is about honoring the present and inspiring the future. As we look around our department and division today, we see something remarkable—women who are not merely participants but also leaders, mentors, and visionaries.

Throughout history, women have broken barriers, challenged norms, and fought for the right to learn, teach, research, and lead. We stand on the shoulders of pioneers who dared to defy expectations and paved the way for all of us.

We don't need to look to history books to find inspiring women; we have them right here in our department. Each of you is a living legacy of women’s history, carrying forward the work of those who came before us while creating new opportunities for those who will follow.

However, we must acknowledge that our work is not yet complete. While progress has been made, challenges remain. Gender gaps still exist in many fields, and women continue to face obstacles in leadership roles, access to research funding, and recognition for their contributions. Therefore, it is vital that we continue to support and uplift one another—not just this month but every day. 

So today, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us take pride in our achievements, recognize the excellence in our department and division, and commit to moving forward together.

To all the women, faculty, staff, and students in our division, thank you for your hard work, kindness, dedication, and courage. You are the history makers of today and the role models of tomorrow.

Happy Women’s History Month!

Dr. Juan Carlos Mercado
Dean