March 13, 2026
| By Emersyn Holthouse, communication assistant
Northwest Missouri State University is commemorating Women’s History Month in March with “HERstory,” a series of events celebrating and recognizing women’s contributions to history.
Throughout the month, the Center for Engagement and Community Connection (CECC), in conjunction with its Identity365 series, presents events designed to bring together campus and community voices by highlighting achievements, leadership and impacts of women.
All of the month’s activities are free and open to the public.
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Women’s history students at Northwest have authored and recorded a broadcast series that shares the stories of women in the Midwest in conjunction with Women’s History Month. Listen to the series by visiting www.kxcv.org/show/womens-history-month.
“Rather than focusing only on history, this approach allows the programming to feel more personal and reflective of the voices that shape and inspire our campus and community today,” Dr. Shay Malone, Northwest’s associate vice president of institutional excellence and global engagement said.
The series includes Walk With Her, a fitness walk from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the Carl and Cheryl Hughes Fieldhouse. The event invites participants to engage in networking and learning opportunities that spotlight women in the Maryville community.
“We wanted something that brought people together in a relaxed and welcoming way where students could connect with faculty and staff who inspire them or with whom they have formed relationships, and continue building those connections in a supportive environment,” Malone said.
Other Women’s History Month events include “Art Left Behind,” a new exhibition in the Olive DeLuce Fine Arts Building and “Brushes with History,” a paint-and-sip event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 24 in the J.W. Jones Student Union Living Room.
Identity365 is a year-long celebration of the vibrant experiences, backgrounds and cultures that shape Northwest. Through collaboration with student organizations, faculty and staff, the series offers opportunities to explore and honor varied identities and foster understanding, community and connection.
National Women’s History Month originated in 1981 as a week-long celebration and the U.S. Congress declared in 1987 that it be celebrated each March. A presidential proclamation is issued annually to honor the achievements of American women.
To learn more about Women’s History Month events and other upcoming activities sponsored by the Center for Engagement and Community Connection, visit www.nwmissouri.edu/connection/.
