Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University marked Women's History Month by honoring four individuals with its Influential Woman leadership awards during the Women’s Leadership Summit. The event, a tradition at Northwest, invites nominations for female students, faculty, staff, and community members who demonstrate dedication to equity and advocacy.
Mary Collins and Diane Hargrave received their awards in person. Two student recipients, Austyn Fisher and Shaviyah Sese, were unable to attend. Jill Brown delivered the keynote address at the summit.
This year's awardees included Diane Hargrave, executive secretary in the Office of the Provost; Mary Collins, assistant vice president of finance and controller; Austyn Fisher, a junior animal science major from New Sharon, Iowa; and Shaviyah Sese, a junior middle school education major from Independence, Missouri.
Dr. Jessie Peter commented on the significance of the awards: “It’s truly inspiring because we’re celebrating the incredible women who lead, inspire and drive change in our communities and industries.” She emphasized that leadership involves vision and empowerment.
Collins has been with Northwest since 2011 as a controller. Her nominator praised her dedication to protecting the university while fostering a family-like team environment. Hargrave joined Northwest in 2009 and is known for her advocacy and mentorship. Her nominator highlighted her selflessness and commitment to helping others succeed.
Fisher is recognized as president of the Women in Science Club for her advocacy for animal care. Sese serves as president of the Black Student Union and is noted for building community on campus.
The Influential Woman awards were presented alongside the EmpowerHER-themed summit featuring learning sessions and activities aimed at women leaders or aspiring leaders. The event also featured Jill Brown's keynote address on leadership.
Women’s History Month began as a week-long celebration in 1981 before Congress declared it an annual March observance in 1987 through presidential proclamation to honor American women's achievements.
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