Student Voices

Lucy Wheelock’s Legacy Resonates During Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month is the perfect time to reflect on the many trailblazing women who have shaped the world around us. At Boston University, Wheelock College of Education & Human Development carries with it a unique history—one rooted in the vision of Lucy Wheelock, a powerful advocate for education.

Lucy Wheelock’s legacy resonates deeply with the students of BU Wheelock’s undergraduate program in education & human development program. I sat down with a few students and one recent alum from BU Wheelock to hear what it means to them to attend a school founded by such an inspiring woman. Through their stories, we explore how Lucy Wheelock continues to inspire their academic journeys.

Renata Feinstein, Senior

Specialization: Teaching & Learning

Originally from Los Angeles, California, Renata has been involved with the Urban Garden Initiative and Omega Phi Alpha community service sorority during her time at BU, as well as working at the BU Children’s Center.

“It is so wonderful to be attending a school that truly celebrates and honors the role of women, like Lucy Wheelock, in the field of education. So many women throughout history have had their careers or achievements overlooked. I am proud to be a part of Lucy’s legacy as yet another female student about to earn her bachelor’s degree in education & human development.”

Renata Feinstein

Gracy Szewc, sophomore

Specialization: Child & adolescent mental health

Gracy is from the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, who plans to study psychology, as well as specialize in child & adolescent mental health at BU Wheelock. She also works at the Boston University Children’s Center.

“It feels very empowering knowing that the model in Wheelock that I am studying under is also a woman. It is also very motivating to continue to be driven and ambitious with my studies, understanding that what I am working for is not only my degree, but the continuation of an impactful legacy.”

Gracy Szewc

Alondra Hernandez, junior

Specialization: Youth justice

From Brownsville, Texas, Alondra serves as a senator for the Wheelock Student Government and is an active member of Phi Alpha Delta. She also works with Jumpstart, supporting early childhood education initiatives.

“As someone pursuing a path in a male-dominated field, I have found immense encouragement from my professors and peers to take up space and confidently pursue my goals. At Wheelock, I have never been made to feel that my gender is a limitation, and I believe this stems from the school’s deep commitment to honoring its history and fostering an inclusive, empowering environment.”

Alondra Hernandez

Tess Greenwald (Wheelock’24)

Elementary Education

As an undergraduate at Boston University, Tess studied Elementary Education and was a member of Wheelock Student Government.

“I feel extremely proud to have gone to a school founded by a woman—especially a woman who was so prominent in the early education field. Even more so, the fact that Wheelock is the only school at BU named after a woman is so impressive and makes me feel appreciative of the community within the college.”

Tess Greenwald

Scarlett Downing, senior

Specialization: Educational design for transformative social futures

Scarlett is a senior at BU Wheelock who is also an RA on campus and the Earl Center for Learning  & Innovation undergraduate ambassador. She is doing her practicum at the New England Aquarium this semester.

“Education has long been a field dominated by women, which has led to it being undervalued as a profession. Despite the millions of women who have persevered through the demanding conditions of teaching, men are often the ones given recognition and prestige. The fact that Wheelock was founded by a woman is a testament to the countless women who have dedicated their lives to nurturing future generations and make the world a better place through education.”

Scarlett Downing

As we’ve heard from these diverse voices across different majors, specializations, and years, Lucy Wheelock’s dedication to shaping the future of education for all remains a guiding force for students. Through their perspectives, it’s clear that attending a school founded by such a pioneering woman not only honors her vision but also empowers today’s students to carry that legacy forward. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s a reminder that the path laid out by women like Lucy Wheelock still inspires and motivates the leaders of tomorrow.