The founder of Wheelock College was a visionary in early childhood education who established the institution in 1888 with the mission to train teachers who would make a difference in the lives of children. Her commitment to the intellectual and emotional development of young learners helped shape the field of education and laid the foundation for what is now Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development. Her legacy lives on through the institution she founded, which continues to impact future generations of educators.

A beloved actress best known for her iconic role as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz, Hamilton graduated with a degree in education before embarking on her career in acting. Her time at Wheelock helped lay the groundwork for her deep love of the arts, which ultimately led her to Hollywood and a legendary career. Despite her fame in the entertainment world, Hamilton’s early education at Wheelock shaped her understanding of the power of storytelling and performance.

A fierce advocate for civil rights and educational reform, Batson developed a deep commitment to social justice during her time as a student, which shaped her drive to fight for equal educational opportunities and her efforts toward desegregating Boston’s public schools. Her work continues to inspire those dedicated to creating an equitable society, and her legacy as an advocate for social change remains a powerful influence in the education and human development fields.

Kilbourne, a pioneering scholar and activist, was a pioneer in exploring the harmful effects of media on the portrayal of women. Her groundbreaking work, including the creation of the Killing Us Softly film series, critiques the objectification of women in advertising. Kilbourne’s advocacy for media literacy and women’s rights has made her one of the most influential voices in feminist media studies.

The principal owner of the Detroit Lions NFL team with a passion for breaking down barriers, Hamp is one of the most powerful women in sports leadership. As an influential figure in the sports industry, she continues to use her position to create more opportunities for women in sports management and ownership, serving as a role model for future generations of women leaders.

Jenkins, a distinguished journalist and advocate for racial and gender equality, has had a lifelong commitment to addressing social justice issues, which she has carried throughout her career. As a TV anchor, producer, and co-founder of the Women’s Media Center, Jenkins has used her platform to break critical stories and amplify the voices of those often underrepresented in the media.

Kathryn Lasky, an acclaimed author and storyteller Lasky, has penned over 100 books, including the beloved Guardians of Ga’Hoole series. Her education provided her with a foundation for creativity and a passion for writing. Lasky’s stories are known for their deep emotional resonance, complex characters, and imaginative worlds, and she continues to inspire young readers and writers around the world.

Miranda is a poet and scholar dedicated to preserving the untold stories of Indigenous peoples. She explores and amplifies Indigenous histories through her poetry and scholarship. As an advocate for Indigenous rights, Miranda’s work continues to honor her heritage while challenging dominant narratives, ensuring that the voices of Indigenous communities are heard and remembered.