Every March, Women’s History Month invites us to reflect on the trailblazing women who changed the world and continue to shape our present.

I spoke to several Cleveland State students about the women how had inspired them, who they were, what they stood for and why their impact still resonates today.
 

Mary Ainsworth

Image

Maddison Klein, a Clinical Mental Health Counseling major in the graduate program  spoke to me about Mary Ainsworth. Ainsworth was a psychologist whose groundbreaking work on attachment theory reshaped our understanding of human relationships. 

“Mary Ainsworth is the most inspirational woman in history to me because of her groundbreaking work on attachment theory,” Klein said. "Her research fundamentally changed how we understand human relationships, particularly the bonds between caregivers and children.” 

Klein said that Ainsworth's contributions remain foundational in mental health, child development, and relationship psychology. Her work influences everything from therapy practices to parenting approaches today.

Ainsworth’s famous "Strange Situation" experiment provided concrete observable evidence of attachment styles, revolutionizing our understanding of how early relationships shape us. 

“I work primarily with individuals and couples, helping them navigate relational struggles,” Klein explained, “Understanding attachment styles has given me a framework to help clients recognize and reshape the patterns they may have developed early in life.”  

Ainsworth’s work not only deepened our understanding of emotional security but provided tools that continue to help people build healthier relationships today.
 

Princess Diana

Image

Kateryna Kopylchak, a junior in the Journalism and Promotional Communication major at CSU chose Princess Diana. The legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales extends far beyond her title, and she resonated with multiple demographics around the world.

“She used her platform to advocate for important causes, from HIV/AIDS awareness to landmine removal, and showed incredible compassion for people from all walks of life,” Kopylchak said. 

Diana’s humanitarian work helped break the stigma around issues like HIV/AIDS, homelessness and mental health, paving the way for more open discussions and activism.

Diana’s resilience in the face of intense public scrutiny was another reason she remains inspirational.“Her compassion, humility, and bravery stood out to me,” Kopylchak said. “Despite the scrutiny she faced, she remained true to her values and put others first.” 

Decades after her passing her influence is felt in the work of charities and organizations that continue the causes she advocated for.

I asked Kopylchak what she would ask Diana if given the chance. Her response was,  “What kept you strong in the face of so much public pressure?” 

Kopylchak's question reflects the admiration many still hold for Diana's unwavering kindness despite the challenges she faced.
 

Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Maya Angelou

Image

Kelly Calhoon, a senior in the Public Relations major at CSU highlighted Maya Angelou, a poet and activist whose words gave voice to the marginalized. 

“Maya Angelou’s poetry is timeless,” Calhoon said, “She spoke about pain, strength and resilience in a way that still moves people today.” 

Angelou’s influence extends beyond literature, her work in civil rights and her messages of empowerment continue to uplift individuals seeking self-acceptance and justice.

Calhoon was also inspired by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg who fought valiantly for gender equality. 

“RBG proved that laws aren’t set in stone, that we can change them to create a more just society.” Calhoon said.

Ginsburg’s legacy reminds us that the fight for equality is ongoing and that change happens both inside and outside the courtroom.

Why these women still matter

These historical figures may have lived in different eras and fought different battles but their legacies are deeply connected. They shaped a world that offers more opportunities for women today, but there is still work to do. 

“We still need to fight for equal pay, reproductive rights, and fair representation,” Calhoon said. 

Women’s History Month is more than a time for reflection, it’s a call to action. The women of the past paved the way, and it’s up to us to continue the journey.

As we honor their contributions we also recognize our role in shaping the future ensuring that their struggles were not in vain.

“These women inspire us not just to remember history, but to keep pushing forward.” Klein said. 

Who are the women that inspire you? And how will you carry their legacies forward?