WHM 2025

Dear all,

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,

In recognition of Women’s History Month, I am honored to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women, past and present, and to acknowledge the trailblazers who have shaped history, our fields of study, our department, and our division. During my tenure as Chair and Dean, I have had the privilege of hiring and collaborating with outstanding women students, staff, and professors whose dedication and excellence strengthen our community every day.

This month is not only about remembering the past; it is about honoring the present and inspiring the future. As we look around our department and division, we see something remarkable—women who are not merely participants, but also leaders, mentors, and visionaries.

Throughout history, women have broken barriers, challenged norms, and fought for the right to learn, teach, research, and lead. We stand on the shoulders of pioneers who dared to defy expectations and paved the way for all who followed.

We do not need to look only to history books to find inspiring women; we have them right here in our own community. Each of you represents a living legacy of women’s history, carrying forward the work of those who came before while creating new opportunities for those who will follow.

At the same time, we recognize that the work is not yet complete. While meaningful progress has been made, challenges remain. Gender gaps persist in many fields, and women continue to face barriers in leadership, access to research funding, and recognition for their contributions. For this reason, it is vital that we continue to support and uplift one another—not only during this month, but throughout the year.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us take pride in our achievements, recognize the excellence within our department and division, and reaffirm our commitment to moving forward together.

To all the women—faculty, staff, and students—in our community, thank you for your hard work, kindness, dedication, and courage. You are the history makers of today and the role models of tomorrow.

Happy Women’s History Month.

Sincerely,
Dr. Juan Carlos Mercado
Dean