UMKC celebrates Women’s History Month

  During Women’s History Month, UMKC celebrates the achievements of women through programs, events and historical resources on campus. One of the most significant is the Starr Women’s Hall of Fame, which honors influential women connected to the university and preserves their stories for future generations.

  “The Starr Women’s Hall of Fame supports women at UMKC by recognizing leaders who serve as role models for students and the community,” said Amy Samaripa, a UMKC Women’s Council staff member. “Their achievements are preserved in an archive housed in Miller Nichols Library within the LaBudde Special Collections.”

  The archive includes documents, artifacts and personal stories about the inductees. Students can access the materials for research projects and coursework, giving them the chance to study the impact women have had in fields such as law, politics and business. Preserving these records helps keep women’s accomplishments visible and accessible.

  Another important space on campus for female students is the Women’s Center. The center offers students a place to find resources, attend events and build community, with programs focused on empowerment, education and advocacy.

  “The Women’s Center is a dream come true because it combines so many of the things I love,” said Women’s Center Director Natasha El-Scari.. “I am proud to celebrate my 15th year at UMKC,we have always done such important work on the campus.”

 El-Scari emphasized that inclusivity is central to the center’s mission. “It is very important to me that the Women’s Center is inclusive of all perspectives of feminism,” she said, adding that making sure “all voices are heard really matter.” This approach shapes programming that helps students “see and feel something they can connect with.”

  The center also creates a welcoming environment for students. “When they come to the Women’s Center they will always be greeted with a smile,” she said. “They can bring their friends, or go to have a quiet moment to themselves,” describing the space as one built on “consistency and kindness.”

  Looking beyond the month of March, she hopes students take a broader message with them. “Women’s History Month is every month,” she said. “All women’s voices matter,” encouraging students to think about how they can support gender equity in their daily lives and future careers.

  That mission is reflected in the center’s resources, including a revamped 850-book library with “more women’s voices” and contemporary feminist works. Students are encouraged to engage with these materials and with each other, reinforcing the idea that their voices and experiences matter on campus.

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