Susan B. Anthony Center hosts an inspiring community event to mark International Women’s Day

To mark International Women’s Day 2025, the Susan B. Anthony Center held a luncheon and panel celebrating local organizations that empower women and girls in Rochester. The event began with a networking luncheon, where guests connected with one another and learned more about the featured organizations.

The luncheon was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Ms. Jaime Saunders of the United Way of Greater Rochester. The panel featured influential community leaders: Ms. Meaghan de Chateauvieux, President and CEO of Willow Domestic Violence Center, Ms. Krystle Ellis, Execute Director of the Women’s Foundation of the Genesee Valley, and Ms. Marilyn Tedeschi, Public Policy Director at the American Association of University Women.

The panelists shared powerful stories from their advocacy work, discussing both the challenges and opportunities in advancing gender equity. The conversation touched on several critical topics, including strategies for engaging more men and boys in the movement, urgent actions needed to accelerate progress, and the ways in which these inspiring women continue to thrive while advancing this important and challenging work. Attendees participated in an engaging Q&A session, exploring ways to drive cultural change and strengthen community impact.

The Susan B. Anthony Center’s International Women’s Day celebration served as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to achieve true gender equity—and the power of collective action to make a difference.