In recognition of Women's History Month, Millikin University will host several events throughout the month of March that cover a number of topics and issues.
Women's History Month traces its beginning to the first International Women's Day in 1911. Congress passed a resolution recognizing Women's History Week in 1981, which was extended to an entire month in 1987 to recognize the diverse and historic accomplishments of women that have shaped events throughout history.
Millikin's celebration of Women's History Month includes the following events; all events are free and open to the public.
Saturday, March 4
Tekes, Talent, and Tampons - Sponsored by Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity
4 p.m., Kaeuper Hall, Perkinson Music Center
Tekes, Talent, and Tampons aims to benefit the local Decatur, Ill., community while showcasing the talent on Millikin's campus. The admission fee is a box of tampons or pads that will be donated to the Oasis Day Center in Decatur. Featured acts include Zen and Tonic, Trouveur, Quiet Hours, Nick Gaines Band, Claire Parrish and Joey Mudd, Sarah Connell and Nick Scarpinato, Mikey Jakubowski and Emily Martinez.
Monday, March 6
Bring Back Our Girls - Sponsored by the African Student Organization
6:30 p.m., Lindsay-Schaub Room, Richards Treat University Center
Do you remember the kidnapping of 270-plus school girls in Nigeria by Boko Haram terrorists? Did you know that only about 50 made it back home and there are still more than 200 girls missing? The African Student Organization hasn't forgotten and needs your help to continue spreading the awareness. An interactive discussion will be held to understand the many roles of the people involved in this tragedy. Sandwiches and light refreshments will be provided.
Tuesday, March 7
Lunch Dialog Series featuring Ashley Cleland
12 noon, Lindsay-Schaub Room, Richards Treat University Center
Join us as we discuss the Women's March in Washington, D.C., with Millikin Residential Communities Coordinator Ashley Cleland. Cleland attended the Women's March this past January and will be reflecting on her experience, answering questions and showcasing the March via photographs. Lunch will be provided.
Wednesday, March 22
Miss Representation – Sponsored by the Millikin Career Center
7 p.m., Lower Richards Treat University Center, East Room
Come and watch the film "Miss Representation," a film that unpacks the media's impact on the American perception of women's bodies, women in power and the effect of internalization of standards. Sarah Daniels, student engagement coordinator, and Amber Lusvardi, lecturer of political science at Millikin, will be facilitating a discussion on the film that focuses on reforming education and enabling women leadership in today's society. Buffalo Wild Wings will be provided to the first 30 students that attend.
Thursday, March 23
Look at Her: #IssaAwkardGirl – The Role of a Woman in 2017, Sponsored by Sister Circle
7 p.m., Lindsay-Schaub Room, Richards Treat University Center
Nowadays, the "traditional" woman has enhanced in almost every field and in every fashion. So, have times completely changed? Join us as we discuss the evolution of women's roles in our communities, society and in the home. We will slightly discuss the HBO series entitled "Insecure," and discuss our roles in balancing life, relationships, friendships and women's roles in our professions and workplace.
Monday, March 27
Women's Expo with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
7 p.m., Lower Richards Treat University Center
Worldwide speaker and author Nikki Payne will be traveling from Atlanta, Ga., to share her personal story. Payne's two children were murdered by her husband, who later committed suicide. Join us as Payne discusses her personal story, domestic violence and resiliency.
Thursday, March 30
Women Who Effect Empowerment in 2017 – Sista Girls and Friends
6 p.m., Lindsay-Schaub and Wood Rooms, Richards Treat University Center
Join us for a night of speed networking sponsored by Sista Girls and Friends, a local organization committed to training women in career building, work and life balance, health, arts and culture. Various women from the community will be joining to discuss barriers and limitations of women in leadership.
For more information on Millikin's celebration of Women's History Month, contact Millikin's Office of Inclusion and Student Engagement at 217.424.6335 or visit millikin.edu/ise.