The Female Quotient

Presenting new, groundbreaking ideas can be intimidating. Standing behind your work, is imperative. Even though Cecilia Payne's professor eventually admitted that her theory was correct, he never drew attention to the fact that he once rejected it. Instead he published his own "version" of the theory, corroborating Payne's, and it caught on so well in the astronomical community credited him with the discovery. In her autobiography Payne leaves us with some advice: “I was to blame for not having pressed my point. I had given in to Authority when I believed I was right…I note it here as a warning to the young. If you are sure of your facts, you should defend your position.”

25-year old Kayleigh Haggo of Great Britain became the first world champ of the Paralympic sport, frame running, during its 2019 debut in Dubai. She has cerebral palsy, but knowing she can accomplish incredible athletic feats despite this, she works tirelessly to make sure other people with disabilities can pursue sports, too. What an inspiration, on and off the track. We hope to see more of her in Paris this summer! We’re highlighting remarkable #womeninsports history leading up to #Paris2024. Follow along!

Consider this a reminder to never settle for less than you deserve! Thank you, #ViolaDavis 👏

When (double) dad duty called, he answered 🩰 👉 In Motion School of Dance

In Elizabeth Blackwell’s day, defying her gender role wasn’t the popular choice. But she did it anyway. That is always the most important part of stories like these. She knew what she was up against. She knew it wouldn’t be easy. But she pursued medical school anyway, despite being separated and excluded by peers and professors alike. And her perseverance paid off. She became the first woman to receive a medical degree in America, she focused on areas of care that male doctors had historically neglected, and she took back control by opening her own practice specifically for underprivileged women. What an inspiration and blueprint on perseverance.

Like if you’re ready for a Simone-filled summer 🙋♀️ #Paris2024

Enjoy this full-circle moment from 1965 as the real Maria Von Trapp gives Julie Andrews, the fictional Maria Von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” a live yodeling lesson. Who else better to learn the skill from?!

Being YOU is the goal every single morning.

Shot put, celebrate, and repeat. Lauritta Onye see you 🔜 #paris2024 We’re highlighting remarkable #womeninsports history leading up to #Olympics. Follow along!

Computer pioneer Margaret Hamilton led the team that created the onboard flight software for the Apollo missions, including Apollo 11. The computer system was the most sophisticated of its time. “She symbolizes that generation of unsung women who helped send humankind into space,” said President Barack Obama in 2016 when he awarded Hamilton the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian award. Margaret, a trailblazer in a male-dominated field, shared, “When I first came to Apollo, there were no other women writing software. Then within a couple of years there would be a few – and I did have some working for me – but not many. There were always many more men.” She persevered and leaves us with this advice: “Don’t let fear get in the way and don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know” or “I don’t understand” – no question is a dumb question. And don’t always listen to the so-called experts!” 👏