Women’s History Month With Diana Mecham

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate and reflect on the accomplishments of women from the past and present who have positively impacted us today. Assistant Director of Learner Relations, Diana Mecham contributes much of her success to the strong women in her family. She shares her story in their honor.

I am so proud to be a part of a family that has generations of strong women! I grew up watching my grandmothers who were both professionals (one was a nurse and the other a one-room school teacher). They taught me to use the gifts God gave me and to challenge the limitations that society can put on you. 

My mother raised me to stand firm in my beliefs and to believe that I could do anything that I set my mind to. She raised my two sisters and myself while working midnights and was always involved in our lives. She supported my decision in my first career (stay at home mom) and was my biggest cheerleader when I went back to school at 40 to become a teacher and then ultimately an administrator. 

My sisters, just like my grandmothers, chose nursing and teaching. While I lost my one sister, way too early to cancer, she showed me how to remain strong through adversity and to always treasure what you are given. My other sister has walked in front of me as an educator and incredibly strong administrator. 

I also gain a great deal of inspiration from my daughter who has worked very hard to follow in the footsteps of the other women in our family. She was a college athlete and exceptional scholar. She has a great talent for managing her time and always striving to do her very best. 

All of these women managed to have successful careers that they loved while being amazing mothers and wives. Their examples have driven me to always strive for excellence, and their support has made it possible. I am grateful to have such a strong foundation! 

What women have helped shape the person you are today? Share with us here.