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Sophomores ready to make history

Posted on Apr 03, 2008

The stories of past and present women leaders were used to illustrate to Lauralton Hall sophomores the opportunities they have to become future leaders--and, if they have the drive and desire, to help change the world.

“We are the future of our country,” sophomore and Milford resident Emily Nichols told her classmates. “Think about your place in life, and where you want to be. See yourself making a difference, and then see what you can do.”

Designed to celebrate Women's History Month and sponsored by Cablevision as part of its Power to Learn program, the March 24 assembly featured a visit from two current women leaders, Milford State Sen. Gayle Slossberg, D-14, and Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz.

While Slossberg shared in person her story of community service, Bysiewicz called in by speaker phone for questions and answers. How the two prepared for a role in government and public service was a recurring theme.

“So much of it is about believing in yourself,” said Slossberg, adding that although more than 50 percent of Connecticut residents are women, women represent just 23 percent of state leaders. “You have to believe ‘I have a voice, and I have a right to have it heard.’ The only way for change to occur is for you to stand up. You need to grab it.”

To help illustrate this point, four Lauralton students shared the stories of women in history who inspired them, including Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Eleanor Roosevelt and Connecticut Gov. Ella Grasso.

Sophomore Amanda Rodrigues of Monroe stressed how Grasso, who served from 1975 to 1980, was the not just the state’s first woman governor, but the first in the United States to be elected in her own right. She also served as a member of the state Legislature, was secretary of state and a U.S. congresswoman.

“She did it all on her own, by her own merits and accomplishments,” Amanda said. “Everyone should know about her. She was pretty amazing.”

Classmates interested in possibly pursing careers in public service also shared recent accomplishments. Among them: Emily and fellow sophomore Polly Grzegorczyk of Derby, who earlier this month were the top scorers and first-place winners of the statewide Youth in Law competition in Hartford. It was the girls’ first time competing.

“It was a great educational experience. We debated in front of real lawyers and judges,” Polly said, “and I realized that if I can argue and state my opinions in front of them, I can be bold and make my voice heard anywhere.”

Principal Ann Pratson said she can’t help but feel proud when she hears that kind of statement. One of the primary goals of the school, she said, is to prepare girls to become competent, confident and compassionate women.

“Our expectation is that after Lauralton students graduate, they’re going to make the world a better place for all women by what they do with their lives,” Pratson said.

Slossberg concurs: “When you stand up for women’s issues, you’re generally standing up for human rights issues, which is something we all need to do.”
      



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