By Katherine Ladd/reporter

South Campus will join others around the country to honor and celebrate women during Women’s History Month in March.

This year’s theme is Women Leading the Way: Going Green.

Trish Light, a South Campus behavioral sciences assistant professor, and her WHM committee begin work on the monthlong celebration a year in advance.

“We go an entire year of planning, so this month of events is excellent for our students, faculty, staff and community guests,” she said.

WHM kicks off Feb. 23with the opening reception for the Women in New Roles Art Show, celebrating the 31st anniversary of the group on South, SE and NE, and ends April 4 with TCC’s eighth annual Women’s Symposium.

“Our mission is to recognize and celebrate the diversity and accomplishments of women by programs, seminars, art shows and forums,” Light said.

The symposium is a free educational event featuring more than 45 exhibits and displays. Kathleen Hicks, Fort Worth City Council mayor pro tem, will be the guest speaker at the event.

Although the symposium is free to the public, exhibit space is $25. All proceeds go to the WHM Scholarship Program.

Janine Lund, psychology instructor, chairs the WHM Scholarship Fund. Based on the revenue projected from the events, Lund hopes to offer three $500 scholarships for the summer semester. 

Many events during WHM are available.

Exhibits featuring women will be on display. A film festival featuring movies such as Salt of the Earth, The Hours and Freedom Writers is planned. Roundtable discussions of women’s roles in politics as well as health forums promoting a healthy body image are also scheduled. A full, detailed calendar of events is available for TCC students.

“We lead by example,” Light said.

Light said many students, faculty members and staff are involved in planning the month of events.

“We provide information and educational materials to stimulate those attending and to challenge them with each year’s theme,” she said.