The Kentucky State University campus community celebrated and honored the lives and work of women during its 2021 Women’s History Month Assembly. 

During the summons to assembly, Senior Vice President of Brand Identity and University Relations Clara Ross Stamps said on this day Thorobreds honor and remember Kentucky State’s two female presidents, Dr. Mary Levi Smith-Stowe and Dr. Mary Evans Sias.

“Because of their contributions to Kentucky State, we know that women are more than capable,” Stamps said. “Women are brave. Women are strong and women are leading the way.”

Kelsey Scott, an Emmy-nominated actress and screenwriter, encouraged women to raise their voices in self-advocacy. 

“Ladies, trust your voice and share it,” Scott said. “Gentlemen, support her so that her voice is not a footnote to your story.”

Scott described progress for women as a multi-generational relay race, with women in front doing something that makes it easier for women that come after them. She encouraged women to run their leg of the race with everything they have. 

“You’ve been handed the baton. You got it? Now run,” Scott said. 

Progress doesn’t happen in a vacuum, Scott said. 

“Progress requires advocates, gentlemen,” Scott said. “Have you considered your role in the advancement of women? Your responsibility runs deeper, especially in this space, this place, this home. You’ve got to help a sister out. You should help a sister out. You must be willing to amplify her voice. That’s your baton.” 

Kentucky State University President M. Christopher Brown II noted that the 2020 Women’s History Month Assembly was the first event to be canceled due to pandemic, thus Women of Distinction awards would be awarded for 2020 and 2021. 

The 2020 Women of Distinction honorees are Kemba Cofield, Ramonia Jones and Raeshanda Lias-Lockhart.

The 2021 Women of Distinction honorees are Cornelia Calhoun, Dantrea Hampton, Karen Townsend and Beverly Metcalfe.