8 Female Trailblazers to Know

by Alyx Holder

Happy Women’s History Month and International Women's Day, everyone! Celebrating the power of womanhood and the often unsung contributions of women throughout history is something we can all get behind. From the trailblazing, glass ceiling smashers before us to the ladies continuing to change the game today, this month is dedicated to the go-getters, the game changers, and the thought leaders in us all. As women in business, we know the challenges and triumphs of paving our own path; together, we can do it all.

Women have helped to shape and mold the world as we know it today since the beginning of time. Despite many obstacles, ridicule, and misogynistic doubts, these eight women persevered and made history by doing it.

Ada Lovelace, first computer programmer

Born Augusta Ada King, the Countess of Lovelace was both a mathematician and writer. She worked with Charles Babbage to develop the Analytical Engine, a general-purpose mechanical computing device that would lay the blueprints for modern computer technology. She is also believed to be one of the first people to recognize the greater applications of such a device.

Katherine Johnson, NASA mathematician

The inspiration behind the award-winning film Hidden Figures, Katherine Johnson was an African-American woman who broke boundaries by working to make America’s first crewed flight a reality. She also subsequently helped in America’s first moon landing. With more than 35 years of service, she was honored by NASA in 2017 with the opening of the Katherine G. Johnson Computational Research Facility. Johnson also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.

Shirley Chisolm, first African-American woman elected to Congress

In 1963, Shirley Chisolm became the first African-American woman elected to Congress, representing the 12th Congressional District in New York. Chisholm began her career as an educator before becoming a vocal civil rights activist and feminist. In 1972, she made history again as the first African-American woman to run for president.

Michelle Obama, first African-American First Lady

As Former President Barack Obama made history as the first African-American to hold the highest office, Former First Lady Michelle Obama also made history as the first African-American First Lady. A graduate of both Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Obama is also tied with Hilary Clinton as the two most educated First Ladies. During her tenure in office, Michelle focused on youth fitness and nutrition initiatives to encourage the next generation to lead healthier lives.

Sally Ride, first American woman in space