National Women's History Museum to Celebrate Trailblazing Women at 2025 Awards Gala

National Women's History Museum Honors Inspiring Women at 2025 Gala

On March 20, 2025, the National Women's History Museum (NWHM) will host its prestigious annual Women Making History Awards Gala at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. This esteemed event seeks to highlight the remarkable achievements of women who have significantly impacted society. This year, the NWHM will pay tribute to Sara Blakely, Dr. Opal Lee, and Shirley Welsh Ryan, each known for their revolutionary contributions. The gala is set to be an evening filled with inspiration and entertainment, featuring honorary chair Meryl Streep and hosted by CBS News journalist Norah O'Donnell.

Honorees Making Moves

Sara Blakely, celebrated for founding the shapewear brand Spanx, has transformed the fashion industry with her innovative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit. Recognized by TIME Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People, Blakely is not only a self-made billionaire but also an advocate for women's empowerment. Her commitment to philanthropy is evident through her foundation, which supports girls and women globally. Blakely’s journey illustrates how one woman can disrupt industries and challenge norms.

Dr. Opal Lee, known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," will also be honored during the gala. At 90 years old, Lee has been a stalwart advocate for the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Her relentless walk for justice and equality has garnered her numerous accolades, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom. As an influential speaker and activist, she has made substantial strides in promoting awareness and education regarding Juneteenth.

Shirley Welsh Ryan's contributions to infant health and neuroplasticity position her as another standout honoree. Through her founding of Pathways, Ryan has advanced research on infant movement and development, creating necessary resources for parents and healthcare professionals. Her innovative work continues to influence how healthcare approaches infant development, showcasing the vital role of early detection and intervention.

Mattel's Corporate Changemaker Recognition

In a groundbreaking move, the NWHM will present the inaugural Evelyn Y. Davis Women Making History Corporate Changemaker Award to Mattel. This award honors companies actively fostering gender equity and representation. Over the decades, Mattel has utilized its brands, such as Barbie, to redefine societal perceptions of girls and women. Lisa McKnight, Mattel's Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer, will accept the award on behalf of the company.

Additionally, the event will feature live entertainment, including a debut performance of a song composed by Grammy-winning artist Tena Clark. This celebration promises to be not only a recognition of honorees but also an occasion that inspires future generations of women to continue breaking barriers.

A Legacy of Impact

Since its inception in 2012, the Women Making History Awards have honored trailblazers across various fields. Notable past honorees include literary icon Dr. Maya Angelou, pioneering mathematician Katherine Johnson, and actress Viola Davis, propelling diverse narratives of women's accomplishments into the limelight.

The National Women's History Museum itself, founded in 1996, is dedicated to promoting women's history and advocacy. It serves as a crucial platform for elevating women's voices and ensuring their stories are recognized and remembered.

For those interested in attending this significant event, tickets and further information are readily available through the NWHM’s official website (https://www.womenshistory.org/public-programs/women-making-history-awards). Join the NWHM in honoring these exceptional women and their legacies as they continue to shape our world for the better.