Educating Women for Justice and Leadership
COURTESY OF NOTRE DAME SAN JOSE HIGH SCHOOL
This article initially appeared in the inaugural issue of our magazine, 'Sowing Goodness.' The full issue is available here.
Preparing young women to think critically and respond to current and future economic and environmental issues aligns with the SNDdeN Hallmarks of a Notre Dame Learning Community, Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospel. It is also key to increasing the pipeline of future leaders. Since its founding in 1851, Notre Dame San Jose (NDSJ) has been committed to the education and leadership of women in the San Jose community, empowering young women to choose challenging career paths and become pacesetters.
Nationally, women earn nearly 60% of college degrees each year yet they remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Women currently represent only 36% of practicing physicians, 24% of the U.S. Congress, 14% of executive officers, and 6% of S&P 500 company CEOs. As the oldest all-girls high school in the western United States, NDSJ has an established history of providing education that cultivates leadership. Through their Education for Justice and Leadership program, they focus on developing critical thinking skills, complex problem-solving abilities and effective communication— encouraging students to respond to and transform the world around them.
It is said that each journey begins with a single step. For more than 15 years, the Woman’s Place Project has been the first step for Notre Dame freshmen. Through the Project, they are introduced to many women, some famous and others virtually unknown, who have left an indelible mark on the world. This interdisciplinary course begins in September with each student being assigned a woman to study. As they get to know the women presented in their projects, they begin their journey of self-discovery and learn of the monumental changes that women can effect through courage, ability and the power of conviction. The full impact of the project is realized in March when the entire freshman class comes together to ‘set the table’ for their chosen women at the annual Women of Impact luncheon.
The luncheon honors these successful women who have played a role in our region’s history, acting on behalf of peace and justice, embracing diversity and leadership, and forging new paths. The event highlights their important role in our community and provides resources to transform the future through education that prepares young women for engagement and leadership in careers and fields where they are underrepresented.
In addition, each year, two such exemplary women are celebrated for their accomplishments, an alumna honoree and a community honoree. Over the last several years, honorees have represented a variety of industries including high tech, non-profit, education and the arts.
“Through our Woman’s Place Project, we celebrate those women from across time and cultures and invite them to their place of distinction at the table,” shared NDSJ Head of School Mary Beth Riley.
By example, these women serve as models for personal engagement and responsibility, stewardship, solidarity and advocacy; qualities and characteristics that will embolden these young women to make a lasting impact in their communities and the world.
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