MARCH IS WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Trailblazing Women in History: A Legacy of Strength and Innovation
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women who have paved the way for future generations. At WILMAH, we celebrate the resilience, brilliance, and leadership of women across industries who have broken barriers and inspired change. Here are just a few remarkable women whose legacies continue to influence us today:
Madam C.J. Walker (1867–1919) – An entrepreneurial powerhouse, Madam C.J. Walker became the first self-made female millionaire in America. She built a beauty empire that not only provided innovative haircare products for Black women but also created job opportunities for thousands, empowering women economically.
Marie Curie (1867–1934) – A trailblazer in science, Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize—and the only person to win in two different sciences. Her pioneering research on radioactivity laid the foundation for modern medical treatments, proving that women belong in STEM fields.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020) – A legal icon, Justice Ginsburg spent her career advocating for gender equality. As a Supreme Court Justice, she played a critical role in shaping policies that advanced women’s rights, inspiring generations to challenge injustice.
Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) – A brilliant mathematician, Johnson’s calculations were crucial to NASA’s space missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her contributions, once overlooked, are now recognized as essential to space exploration history.
Dolores Huerta (b. 1930) – A fearless labor leader and activist, Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers union and fought tirelessly for the rights of workers, women, and marginalized communities. Her rallying cry, “Sí, se puede” (“Yes, we can”), continues to inspire social movements worldwide.
These women, among countless others, remind us of the power of determination and the importance of lifting each other up. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s continue their legacy by advocating for equality, mentoring future leaders, and striving for excellence in our own fields.
MEET THE WILMAH BOARD SERIES
TRISHA WHEELER, VICE CHAIR
Trisha has a commitment to her family, a passion for empowering women and a love of the outdoors.
Current Role: Director of National Accounts, Merck Animal Health
About Trisha: Outside of her professional pursuits, Trisha is a proud family person. She shares her life with her husband, Brian, and their two children. Their daughter, Keera, is currently a sophomore in college and showcases her musical talent by playing the cello. Meanwhile, their son, Keagan, is gearing up to graduate as a senior in high school and is an avid baseball player with plans to continue his athletic journey into college. Completing their family are two energetic Boxers, Tito and Bruce, and two affectionate cats, Kitty and Rita, who collectively bring joy and warmth to their home.
What Trisha likes best about being on the WILMAH board: Trisha values the opportunity to connect with accomplished women in the animal health sector. “Being part of such a dynamic group allows me to build a supportive network that promotes gender diversity in leadership roles,” she shares. Her commitment to empowerment and inclusion resonates deeply within the WILMAH community, where members continually uplift one another and strive for equality in the workplace.
Fun fact about Trisha In her free time, Trisha embraces a love for the outdoors, where her family enjoys activities such as fishing, hunting, and UTVing—known in some circles as “side-by-side” riding. Traveling is also a cherished pursuit, allowing her family to create lasting memories together while exploring new places.
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WILMAH welcomes Patrick Evans to the Board of Directors
WILMAH is pleased to announce that Patrick Evans, Executive Director of Sales for the Southeast Region at Elanco, has joined the Board to represent Advocacy. Patrick has been a supporter of WILMAH for many years and we are happy to have him in an official capacity.
WILMAH OFFICERS
Chairperson: Jessica Bayer
Vice Chair: Trisha Wheeler
Secretary: Krista Hospodarsky
Membership: Beth Womack
Treasurer: Meggan Harris
WILMAH BOARD MEMBERS
Advocacy: Patrick Evans
Co-Community: Heather Fox
Mentorship: Melissa Howe
MarCom: Cathy Martin
Prof Development: Lesli Stasiek
Co-Community: Laura Watenpool
