Recognizing Women's Past and Present

Cherryville, NC (WNN) - What started as a week-long celebration in March of 1978 has since grown into a nationwide, month-long tribute. Once again, Women's History Month is upon us. In this article, we will review the women who have made history, past and present. 

Honoring The Past

From Civil War spy Harriet Tubman to aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly nonstop around the Atlantic Ocean, women have changed the course of history. This month recognizes those women who have battled, endured, and set out to carve a path where others dared to venture. 

It was not until the early 1800s that women started to progress in society, gaining access to education, voting rights, and workplace equality. From the fight for women's suffrage to ongoing advocacy for equal pay and representation, women have continued to break barriers across science, technology, the arts, literature, athletics, and exploration, proving that there are no gender-based limitations. These women who made history were driven by fearlessness, determination, leadership, and resilience. 

Sound familiar? That's because Women's History Month is not just about celebrating those who have made history; it is also about recognizing the women who are continuing to shape it today. 

Acknowledging The Present

U.S. Women's Hockey Team after winning gold at the Olympics

At a global level, the U.S. Women's Hockey Team won gold at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, while 20-year-old figure skater Alysa Liu made history by becoming the first American woman in 24 years to win gold at the Olympic individual free skate competition. 

Alysa Liu, after representing U.S. Women's Figure Skating at the 2026 Olympics.

Closer to home, women in our own community are making a lasting impact through education, advocacy, athletics, and service. 

Doris Cope holding one of her trophies.

Doris Cope's Book

A retired teacher who knew who she was from an early age, Doris Cope made a significant impact on the education system and inspired her students to make history. Read the full article about Doris Cope's Legacy here.

Lindsay Gullatte Lee in the Wise News Network Studio. Friday, 12/8/23, by Mason Beam.

After being diagnosed with stage 3C cervical cancer, Lindsay Gullatte spends the rest of her life sharing her story and being a survivor advocate. Her mission is to travel to all 50 states and raise awareness about cervical cancer treatment. Read the full article about Lindsay Gullatte here.

Donna Lavery reflecting on photographs from the CHS Tennis Team’s early years. September 17th, 2025

Ashley Reep (WNN)

Remembered by generations of students, Donna Lavery dedicated her career to teaching not only in the classroom but also on the tennis court, as she pioneered the Cherryville High School Women's tennis team. Read the full article about Donnay Lavery here.

Teresa Wingo with WNN's Rusty Wise. September 22nd,2025

Mason Beam (WNN)

Better known as the "Trunk Lady" in Gastonia, Teresa Wingo has always been helping those who are less fortunate. Her selfless spirit is rooted in family values, as she grew up watching her mother and grandmother devote their lives to helping others. Talk about faithful women leading by example. Read the full article about Teresa Wingo here.

Women's History Month reminds us that history is not only found in a textbook, but it's also being made every day. Women continue to inspire one another, from generations past to generations yet to come. 

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