In celebration of Women's History Month, Women's Public Leadership Network is looking ahead to our National Summit in Philadelphia by honoring the trailblazing women who shaped the "City of Brotherly Love" into a city of female firsts. From the colonial era to the modern day, Philadelphia has been a place where women found their footing and forged lasting change. Whether in the halls of government, the courtroom, or the arts, these pioneers laid the groundwork for the leadership we continue to cultivate today.

Katharine Wentworth Ruschenberger: On September 25, 1920, she was the first to ring the "Justice Bell" (a replica of the Liberty Bell) in Philadelphia’s Independence Square to celebrate the ratification of the 19th Amendment.

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander: The first Black woman to earn a PhD in Economics in the United States at the University of Pennsylvania in 1921. She went on to become the first woman to practice law in Pennsylvania. Her pursuit of excellence across two demanding fields exemplifies the barrier-breaking leadership that defines Philadelphia's story.

Cherelle Parker's inauguration in January 2024 as the first female Mayor in Philadelphia's 341-year history marked a defining moment for the city. A lifelong Philadelphian and former legislator, Parker's rise to the city's highest office represents a continuous thread connecting generations of women who refused to wait for permission to lead.

The goal of our work at Women’s Public Leadership Network is to ensure that women with unique perspectives and a passion for their communities have the tools to make their voices heard. This history of "firsts" serves as a powerful reminder that while the path to leadership can be difficult, it is a journey worth taking. By leaning on a network of support and mentorship, today's leaders are following in the footsteps of giants like Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander and Deborah Willig, who broke glass ceilings in economics and law decades ago. Take a look at Women’s History Month highlights from previous years here.

This month, let their legacies inspire you to take your own bold step into public service. Whether you are considering a run for local office or looking to support others in your community, remember that your lived experience is your greatest asset. Philadelphia’s history proves that when one woman pushes the door open, she creates a path for many others to follow.