Meet Our Calendar Stars!
Dr. Laurel R. Harry
Dr. Laurel R. Harry
FIRST WOMAN to be named
Secretary of the PA Department of Corrections January 2023
January Calendar Star
Dr. Laurel R. Harry was named Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) by Governor Josh Shapiro in January 2023.
A 24-year veteran of the DOC, Dr. Harry began her career in 1999 as a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist II at SCI Waynesburg. She worked her way through the ranks as a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist Supervisor, Unit Manager, Corrections Classification and Program Manager, Staff Assistant to the Central Region Deputy Secretary, Deputy Superintendent, and Superintendent of SCI Camp Hill for ten years. Most recently, she served as Acting Western Region Deputy Secretary.
In addition to serving at six state correctional institutions across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Dr. Harry was a member of the Western Region Hostage Negotiation Team for six years and graduated from the Criminal Justice Executive Leadership Program in 2008 and the Leadership Development Institute in 2010. She was also recognized by the PA Prison Wardens Association as the 2019 Warden of the Year.
Dr. Harry earned her doctorate in criminal justice at California University of Pennsylvania, and her master’s degree in counseling and bachelor’s degree in psychology at West Virginia University.
The Honorable Cynthia A. Baldwin
February Black History Month
The Honorable Cynthia A. Baldwin was the first African American woman elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas and only the third African-American and the second African-American woman to serve on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in its over three-hundred-year history. She retired from the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in 2008, became a partner at Duane Morris, and later served as the first Vice President and General Counsel for the Pennsylvania State University.
In 1989, she became the first woman of color elected president of the Penn State Alumni Association; in 2004, she was elected Chair of Penn State’s Board of Trustees. She also served as President of Duquesne University’s Law Alumni Association from 1996-1997. In 2008, she was the first woman and the first person of color elected to the board of Kopper’s Inc., where she served with distinction until her retirement in 2019.
Baldwin was formerly a member of the Allegheny County Bar Association, the Homer S. Brown Law Association’s Executive Board, the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the Commission on Justice Initiatives, and a gubernatorial appointee to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Baldwin has served on many boards and has chaired the following: The Association of Governing Boards, the Duquesne Law Alumni Board, the Fulbright Association Board of Directors, and the Foundation of HOPE Board of Directors. Justice Baldwin served a summer as a Fulbright Scholarship Lecturer on the Law Faculty of the University of Zimbabwe in Harare, Zimbabwe.
In May 2025, the Honorable Cynthia A. Baldwin was the first woman to receive the National Association of Corporate Directors (Three Rivers Chapter) William Hernandez Lifetime Achievement in Governance Award. She has received many awards and recognition: Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania, the Heinz History Center History Maker Award, Carlow College’s Woman of Spirit, and the Gwen Elliott Empowerment Award from the Greater Pittsburgh Business and Professional Women’s Club.
The Honorable Jessica Garfola Wright (Major General, Retired)
The Honorable Jessica Garfola Wright (Major General, retired)
Perry County
March Calendar Star
28th Combat Aviation Brigade Commander, the First Female Brigade Commander in the United States Army.
The Honorable Jessica Garfola Wright devoted more than 40 years to military and Department of Defense service, building a distinguished career marked by leadership, innovation, and dedication to those who serve our nation. From 2017 to 2021, she served as a Senior Mentor in the Department of the Army, supporting the next generation of military leaders.
General Wright concluded her federal service in 2015 as the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. She served as the senior advisor to the Secretary of Defense on all personnel and readiness policy matters for more than 2.6 million military personnel and nearly 750,000 Department of Defense civilians. She assumed these responsibilities in January 2013 after serving as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs.
Prior to her federal appointment, General Wright retired from the military as a Major General and served as the Adjutant General of Pennsylvania. In this cabinet-level position, she commanded all Pennsylvania Army and Air National Guard units, oversaw six state veterans’ homes, and directed programs supporting the Commonwealth’s one million veterans.
A trailblazer throughout her career, General Wright began her military service as an enlisted Soldier in 1975. After earning her commission and completing Army aviation training, she became the first female officer aviator in the Army National Guard and, later, the first female National Guard aviator qualified to fly both the CH-47 Chinook and CH-54 Sky Crane. She also became the first female maneuver brigade commander in U.S. Army history and the first female aviator general officer of any military service.
Her many honors include the Distinguished Public Service Medal, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and her induction into the Women’s Army Hall of Fame and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Hall of Fame.
Quote: Leadership is not gender specific, and true bravery isn't about size or shape. Whether in muddy conditions, under attack, or in a command center, the essential qualities are skill, determination, and unshakable resolve. Women haven't just secured a spot at the table; we've demonstrated our strength on the front lines, showing daily that real capability depends on dedication, not how well one's uniform fits. Major General Jessica Garfola Wright
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Rep. Susie Monroe
April Calendar Star
Pennsylvania House of Representatives (1948 - 1968)
Philadelphia County - 28th District
A transplant from Florida, Susie Monroe became active in Philadelphia politics and eventually becamethe chair of the 32nd Ward Democratic Executive Committee. Ms. Monroe was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1948. She represented her constituents for ten consecutive terms, from January 1949 until her death on November 7, 1968.
Advocate for fair and equal treatment in employment, education, housing and healthcare.
A transplant from Florida, Susie Monroe became active in Philadelphia politics and eventually became the chair of the 32nd Ward Democratic Executive Committee. Ms. Monroe was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1948. She represented her constituents for ten consecutive terms, from January 1949 until her death on November 7, 1968.
A transplant from Florida, Susie Monroe became active in Philadelphia politics and eventually becamethe chair of the 32nd Ward Democratic Executive Committee. Ms. Monroe was elected to the PennsylvaniaHouse of Representatives in 1948. She represented her constituents for ten consecutive terms, from January 1949 until her death on November 7, 1968.
During her tenure in the Pennsylvania House, Monroe became known for her work on legislation to ensure fair and equal employment treatment for Pennsylvania workers, improve public healthcare, and expand access to safe, affordable housing.
Ms. Monroe Joined Rep. Sarah Anderson in pushing for the passage of House Bill 322 to amend the Fair Employment Practices Act of 1955, to "prohibit discrimination in the selling, leasing or financing of commercial houseing and discrimination in places of public accommodation, resort or amusement because of race, color, religious creed, ancestry or national origin."
Monroe's refusal to be silenced about the alleged usurpation of her vote on a major sales tax increase in 1967, led to changes in how members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives conducted business.
She also worked on public health legislation, which allowed her to secure appropriations for Jefferson Medical College and the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania during her last term in office. Monroe died while in office. She was laid to rest at the Rolling Green Memorial Park in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Joann Quinn Smith
May Calendar Star
2009 U. S. Small Business Journalist of the Year
Small Business Owner, Community Activist, Social Media Icon
Birthplace: Masontown, PA 1950-2017, October 6, 1949, to June 14, 2017
Quote:
“It’s great to do something positive about Pittsburgh and receive national recognition for it. I was in the East Room of the White House, and the president was there. That's pretty good for a coal miner’s daughter from Masontown.”
Joanne Quinn Smith [1949-2017] embodied the spirit of a trailblazer as she reshaped entrepreneurship and media in Pittsburgh. As an award-winning entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, Joanne transformed how stories were shared and celebrated.
She regularly attended Entrepreneurial Thursdays, guided others through emerging technologies, and inspired confidence. Her dedication to helping attendees through the intricacies of these platforms earned her the affectionate nickname "Techno Granny." Through her expertise and enthusiasm, Joanne not only fostered a collaborative learning environment but also inspired others to embrace new possibilities and pursue their goals with confidence and dynamic perspectives.
Joanne pioneered podcasting in 2007 and quickly became a leader in the field. Her work inspired small businesses and earned her national recognition, including the US Small Business Administration’s National Small Business Journalist of the Year award in 2009. She also received the same award for the SBA Regional Office, which spans Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
She was the first journalist to achieve these distinctions through her innovative use of social media. Joanne was a hub that fostered collaboration and facilitated Pittsburgh’s technology, marketing, and networking scene.
Her company, Dreamweaver Marketing, was a creative force, producing podcasts like Positively Pittsburgh Live and the Techno Granny Show that celebrated the city’s vibrant character.
Joanne’s commitment to supporting women business owners was evident in her leadership as President of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Greater Pittsburgh Chapter and in her mentorship of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Through her vision and dedication, Joanne left a profound effect in Pittsburgh and inspired countless individuals in her community.
Lois Weber
June 13, 1879-November 13, 1939
Allegheny City, PA
First Woman to Direct and Own a Movie Studio
June Calendar Star
"...Lois Weber was the American cinema's first genuine auteur, a filmmaker involved in all aspects of production and one who utilized the motion picture to put across her own ideas and philosophies."
Anthony Slide, Film Historian
Lois Weber became the first woman in America to direct a feature film and own a movie production studio. A former street-corner evangelist, she began directing, writing, and then producing films dealing with such themes as abortion, alcoholism, birth control, drug addiction, and prostitution. Her 1916 film “Where Are My Children” discussed open access to contraceptives to reduce the number of abortions.
The leading characters she created were nearly always female, challenged with complexities like adultery, divorce, domestic violence, and romances that crossed class and racial lines. Among her films, artistic commentary can be found on urban poverty, addiction, consumerism, sexual harassment, prejudice, and the suffocation of life experienced by women trapped in traditional roles.
Weber has been credited with pioneering the use of the split-screen technique to show simultaneous action in her 1913 film Suspense. In 1914, she directed 27 movies; Weber co-directed Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, making her the first woman to direct a feature-length film in the US. By 1916, she had established herself as the top director at Universal Film Manufacturing (now Universal Studios), making her the highest-paid director in the world. The following year, she formed Lois Weber Productions. She directed over 100 films but did not make the transition to sound. Her last film, White Heat (1934), was a talkie.
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission installed a Lois Weber historical marker in front of the Carnegie Free Library of Allegheny. The Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival gives out the Lois Weber Award.
The Library of Congress selected three of her films for the National Film Registry as being "culturally, historically or aesthetically" significant: Suspense (1913), Where Are My Children? (1916) and Shoes (1916).
The Keystone Eight and a Century of Progress
8 women who were the First women elected to the PA State House
Just two years after the ratification of the 19th Amendment, eight pioneering women stepped into history by taking their seats in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 1923–1924legislative session. Known as the “Keystone Eight,” they became the FIRST women ever elected tothe chamber. Their arrival marked a turning point in state history.
January 1923 – A New Era Begins
Just two years after the ratification of the 19th Amendment, eight pioneering women stepped intohistory by taking their seats in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 1923–1924legislative session. Known as the “Keystone Eight,” they became the FIRST women ever elected tothe chamber. Their arrival marked a turning point in state history.
The eight trailblazers were:
• Martha J. R. A. Connor – ChesterCounty
• Lillie H. Clinger – McKeanCounty
• Helen Grimes – AlleghenyCounty
• Alice M. Bentley – CrawfordCounty
• Mabel C. Dobson – DelawareCounty
• Sarah M. Gallaher –Cambria County
• Bessie E. Taylor – LackawannaCounty
• Martha M. Bayard –Philadelphia
These lawmakers focused much of their early legislative work on social welfare, education, and public health—areas where they sought to strengthen protections for children, families, and their communities. Their service laid the foundation that would support women’s growing participation in state government for generations.
March 2023 – Nearly a Century Later
The Pennsylvania House elected its FIRST female Speaker, Joanna McClinton of Philadelphia,marking another historic milestone almost 100 years after the Keystone Eight first took office.
March 2026 – A New Record
The House reached another major benchmark as two new members—Rep. Jen Mazzocco ofAllegheny County and Rep. Ana Tiburcio of Lehigh County were sworn in. With their addition, thechamber reached 65 women lawmakers, the highest number in its nearly 350-year history.
This record-setting moment reflects the long arc of progress that began in 1922, when eight women took a courageous first step toward representation that continues to expand today.
Sarah "Sally" Franklin Bache
September Calendar Star
American Patriot and Political Hostess
September 11, 1748 - October 5, 1808
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Only daughter of Benjamin Franks who was instrumental in raising relief funds and supplies for the Continental Army.
Sally was the only daughter of Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah Reed. As a young girl, she received a traditional education in homemaking and was often at odds with her father when she demanded the same education as her brothers. She was 13 years old when Ben Franklin's diplomatic duties required him to leave for London and later to France. He briefly returned twice, but for most of her life, he was absent. They corresponded extensively, and his view of her changed from a “little girl” to admiration as she became his official hostess in 1774.
• Key Roles and Achievements
• "Political Hostess" Sally assumed the role of political hostess in the Franklin home after her Mother’s passing. It was vital to Franklin’s influence and to the new, emerging nation to have a home where foreign diplomats, politicians, and military leaders were entertained.
• Leader of the Ladies Association: In 1780, Sally took over leadership of the Ladies Association of Philadelphia. She organized over 2,000 women to provide direct aid to American soldiers.
• Leader of the Ladies Association: In 1780, Sally took over leadership of the Ladies Association ofPhiladelphia. She organized over 2,000 women to provide direct aid to American soldiers.
• Supply Leader for Washington's Army: Under her direction, the association raised over
$300,000 ($9.6 million in today’s economy). At George Washington's request, they used the money to buylinen and personally sewed over 2,200 shirts for the cold, under-supplied troops.
· Wartime Refugee: During the British occupation of Philadelphia, 1777-1778 Sally fled the city twice with her young children to safety. She successfully protected Franklin’s valuable family possessions,papers, and treasured scientific equipment from the British soldiers who occupied their home.
Sarah Sally Franklin Bache passed on October 5, 1808, and is buried in Christ Church Burial Ground, Philadelphia, the same resting grounds as her parents.
Colleen Moore Mezler
Colleen Moore Mezler, President and CEO
Moore Research Services, Inc
Erie PA
September Calendar Star
Colleen Moore Mezler is recognized nationally and internationally as an innovative entrepreneur, business leader, market research expert, mentor, and advocate for women.
As President and CEO of Moore Research Services, Inc., Colleen transformed a long-standing Pennsylvania women-owned regional market research firm into a premier global research organization. Building on the legacy of her mother, Peggy Moore, who founded the business in 1969 with a card table and file cabinet, Colleen, a second-generation entrepreneur, created economic opportunities, expanding the company’s capabilities while maintaining a reputation for excellence, innovation, and integrity.
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Colleen dedicates countless hours to community service and leadership development. Working with the United Way of Erie County and other organizations, she shares expertise through educational initiatives, leadership development programs, mentoring, and advocacy of workplace equity to empower and strengthen women and the organizations they are a part of. Her commitment to advancement of women is one of her most enduring legacies.
Colleen is honored for her expertise, leadership ,and unwavering commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities exist for women to succeed and lead.esearch and analytics industry, she helped shape industry standards, totally advancing professional excellence. Her contributions earned her the Insights Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the Insights Distinguished Service Award. ,her
Her service and empowerment efforts are acknowledged through other honors, including ATHENA International’s PowerLink Award, ATHENA’s Leadership Award, and service on the ATHENA International Board of Directors; Mercyhurst University’s Mercy Center Women Making History Award; Gannon University’s Women in Leadership Development Legacy Award; and recognition as the SBA Woman-Owned Business of Western Pennsylvania. Under Colleen’s leadership, Moore Research Services was named a 2025 Pennsylvania Chamber Small Business of the Year honoree in the Innovation Excellence category.
Colleen is honored for expertise, leadership and, unwavering commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities exist for women to succeed and lead.
Anne Flynn Schlicht, MBS
Director for the Center for Women's Entrepreneurship at Chatham University (CWE)
October Calendar Star
"The rise and continued success of women business owners, decade after decade, is creating a better world for everyone."
Anne Flynn Schlict, MBS, serves as the Director for the Center for Women's Entrepreneurship at Chatham University (CWE) and has worked at CWE for the past 20 years. Under Ann's leadership, CWE has built partnerships and economic development agencies in the region to help scale small business development. In recognition of CWE's impact, The U.S. Small Business Administration named CWE the 2018 National Women's Business Center. Anne holds a wealth of international experience as a professor of entrepreneurship, a business consultant, and has presented at seminasrs and conferences internationally on the topic of entrepreneurship education and women entrepreneurs.
Anne is passionate about her community involvement and volunteerism and currentlyserves on several non-profit Board of Directors - Advantage Credit
Anne is passionate about her community involvement and volunteerism and currently serves on several non-profit Board of Directors - Advantage Credit The Association of Women Business Centers. Anne is honored to be the recipient of the 2021 Pittsburgh SMART 50 Award, 2025 Pittsburgh Business Times Women of Influence Award and most recently 2026, Top 50 Pittsburgh Women Business Leaders, and chosen for the 2027 Women’s Voices…HearThem Speak© Calendar.,
Crystak Dreda Bird Fauset
December Calendar Star
Civil Rights Activist, Social Worker and Race Relations Specialist
Crystal Dreda Bird Fauset started her professional career as a public school teacher from 1914 to 1918 before working for the Young Women's Christian Association from 1918 to 1926. She followed with the American Friends Service Committee. In 1933, Fauset became the executive secretary of the Institute of Race Relations at Swarthmore College, where she helped document employment andhousing discrimination against African Americans in Pennsylvania.
In 1935, she became assistant to the director of Philadelphia's Works Progress Administration. Fauset also organized Philadelphia’s Democratic Women’s League to engage more women in politics.
In 1939, Fauset was elected to the Pennsylvania state legislature. She served for a year as a state representative in which she introduced nine bills and three amendments on issues ranging fromaffordable housing projects to fair employment legislation. Fauset resigned after one year to assume the role of Assistant state director, Education and Recreation Program, Works Program Administration.
In 1941, Fauset was appointed Assistant Director and Race Relations Director of the Office of Civil Defense. promoting civil defense planning in black communities, recruitment of blacks in the military, and dealing with complaints about racial discrimination.
After World War II, Fauset turned her attentions to a more global forum, helping to found the United Nations Council of Philadelphia, which later became the World Affairs Council. Throughout the 1950s, she traveled to Africa, India, and the Middle East to meet and support independence leaders. Fauset died on March 27, 1965, in Philadelphia.
In 1955, Fauset was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.Some of her surviving papers and photos are housed in an archive collection at Howard University. She was awarded a Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission Marker.