What exactly makes a "shero?" Is it the bounce in her step? Is it the gleam in her eyes? Or the fact that she, above others, would take the self-satisfaction of helping others over a fancy award any other day?
There are sheroes everywhere. These women live in our communities, take care of our families, go without praise for their selfless efforts, and have given everything for the benefit of others.
On March 31, 2008, Penn Valley hosted the first annual Unsung Sheroes Award Ceremony as a closing ceremony for Women's History Month. The ceremony celebrated seven phenomenal women for their efforts with six different award categories.
The six award categories consisted of: the Personal Achievement Award, the Art & Culture Award, the Caregiver Award, the Change Agent Award, the Health & Safety Award, and the Youth & Community Services Award.
Awardees were nominated by family members, coworkers, and people of the community who felt these women had gone unnoticed long enough.
Kim Carlos was awarded the Personal Achievement award after beating breast cancer. Carlos has founded several nonprofit organizations for research of teen illnesses.
Dr. Marge Williams received the Youth & Community Services award for being the first African-American female ever appointed to the highest administrative post in the Hickman Mills C-1 school district in 2000.
As a new tradition, the Women of PVCC - which consists of students, employees, and professors - recited the "We Speak Your Name" poem. The poem gives the reader the opportunity to give praise to the First Women of history. Originally written by Pearl Cleage, the poem was first recited at Oprah's Legends Ball.
In the spirit of saving the best for last, MCC-Penn Valley closed the ceremony with Kansas City's own musical "shero," Ida Macbeth.
MacBeth is one of Kansas City's first female jazz & blues singers, and has been performing since the 1970s. She sang several upbeat songs, reminiscent of the days when grandmothers were young women stealing men.
MCC-Penn Valley's pioneer movement earned them an article in the Kansas City Star, and will be anticipated for years to come.
Copyright 2008 Metropolitan Community College