“And Ma’am”: Grateful to Stand Among Them

(Photo: My Granny and Me on her birthday in 2016)

My Granny used to tell me how, as a young single mother in the 1940s, she went to night school at Northwestern University in Chicago to study to be a freight traffic agent. After long days of work, she’d nap on the train, then arrive at class ready to learn. One of her classes met in a large lecture hall, and when she walked in, she realized she was the only woman. The professor questioned whether she was in the right place. She was. Each night, he would greet the class with, “Good evening, gentlemen,” then pause, zero in on her, and add with derision, “and ma’am.” But she didn’t back down—she passed the class with an A and landed the job she had set her sights on.

Her determination paved the way for women like me.

Claire McCardell on the Creek

This Women’s History Month, Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater issued a proclamation honoring women who have made history right here in Frederick County—including fashion trailblazer Claire McCardell. Then, to my surprise, my picture appeared on the screen. I feel incredibly honored and humbled to be recognized alongside such remarkable women. Thank you, Jessica Fitzwater, for celebrating these contributions!

Women's History Month Proclamations (Minute 1:16 she introduces Claire McCardell and me at 1:30!)