Vanderbilt celebrated Women's History Month with "A League of Our Own," a panel featuring the women leading the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. Vice Mayor Angie Henderson and At-Large Council Members Delishia Porterfield, Quin Evans Segall, Olivia Hill and Zulfat Suara shared insights on their rise to leadership positions in public service and how they have navigated gender bias throughout their careers.
Co-hosted by the Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center and the Division of Government & Community Relations, the event drew a diverse audience of Vanderbilt students and staff, as well as members of the Nashville community. The panelists shared the unique challenges they face in politics as women and how they have overcome these challenges. They also discussed why diverse leadership in government is so important.
When asked about their journeys into politics, Porterfield reflected on her time as a schoolteacher. Inspired by the needs of students and their families, she began advocating for policy change. Segall's journey began with a simple goal—a sidewalk—prompting her to pursue office after facing doubts and challenges with resilience.
The panelists offered advice for women entering male-dominated fields. Hill stressed the importance of solidarity—being an ally for other women taking a stand on an issue. Suara encouraged women to speak up and recognize their own value. She emphasized the necessity of preparation, confidence and being well-informed about the facts.
The group also discussed the significance of supporting fellow women in politics. Henderson underscored her commitment to serving her female colleagues, advocating for the cultivation of strong relationships among them. Porterfield emphasized the importance of offering support, even amidst disagreement.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, revealing valuable perspectives on the challenges faced by women in government.
"A League of Our Own" reflects Vanderbilt’s commitment to inclusive dialogue and community engagement. The event showcased the accomplishments of Nashville's women in government and reaffirmed the university’s dedication to fostering diverse leadership. Vanderbilt eagerly anticipates ongoing collaboration with Metro Council, aiming to collectively confront critical issues facing both the campus and the greater Nashville community.