Doris Thom, who helped open higher-paying jobs to women in Wisconsin, was the first woman to hold leadership positions in her local labor unions.

Transgender advocate Sheri Swokowski, a former colonel in the U.S. Army, has worked to end discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

Lutie Stearns, “the Johnny Appleseed of books,” started free libraries all over Wisconsin and was an outspoken advocate for social justice.

Donna Shalala was the first woman to head a Big Ten university and the longest-serving secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Nobel Peace Prize winner and Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was the first female head of state of any African country.

Caroline Sandin was a respected civic leader and served on the University of Wisconsin System’s Board of Regents.

Pleasant Rowland founded the American Girls Collection, a popular line of books, dolls, and accessories that features girls living throughout U.S. history.

Jewish activist Hannah Rosenthal served as a U.S. special envoy to work against anti-Semitism.

Sister Joel Read served for 35 years as president of Alverno College and became widely known and respected for her innovative education reforms.

Bertha Reynolds, known as “Dr. Bertha,” was one of the first women to be licensed as a doctor in the state.