Photo Credit: Nathaniel Price
As part of Women’s History month, Florida A&M University hosted the second annual Heroine’s Tea Saturday afternoon in the Grand Ballroom to celebrate the accomplishments of phenomenal women from all backgrounds for their hard work and influence in the community.
Nine women were recognized for their hard work and positive contributions to the community.
The honorees included Anita Favors Thompson, Sue Dick, Darlene Moore, Michelle Gayle, Audrey Smith, Marjorie Turnbull, Charlotte Griffin, Carolyn Collins and Virginia Orr.
According to famu.edu, all nine women have made a significant impact on the history of FAMU and the Tallahassee community, at-large.
Miss Black Florida U.S. Ambassador and FAMU student Kairia Nixon opened the event with the authentic definition of a heroine.
“A heroine is someone who is a pillar in their community where they nurture, transform and empower other people to be leaders in the community just as them,” Nixon said.
FAMU President Elmira Mangum said it was imperative for women to know their value and the honor they deserve.
“Women are not honored the way they should be, and we need to honor ourselves,” Magnum said.
Assistant vice president of Alumni Affairs John Lee reiterated the importance of uplifting women.
“The more that we can empower women to understand the great things that they can do, the better,” Lee said.
When accepting their awards, the honoree’s had a common theme: education and continuing the process of learning for a better future.
“One thing I would want for a particular lady to leave with this event is knowing her history and where she comes from,” Nixon said. “If you don’t know the trailblazers who set the path for you then you’re obviously lost. How can you live off the benefit of so many great women without honoring them?”