What began in 1978 as a weeklong observation in Santa Rosa, California, and was proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter as National Women’s History Week just two years later, is now officially Women’s History Month. First established by an act of Congress in 1987, the annual declaration memorializes the contributions women have made to U.S. history.
Here in Oakland County, the Board of Commissioners is recognizing local women for the historic impact they have made in their communities. Commissioners were invited to submit the names of exceptional women for this honor as part of the Board’s celebration of March as Women’s History Month. This is the second year the Board has honored outstanding local women.
The following women are this year’s honorees:
- Mary Alam of Southfield, Big Boy franchise owner – nominated by Commissioner Yolanda Smith Charles, District 17
- Debbie Bohm-Rosenman of Bloomfield, precinct delegate, instructional coach at Schoolcraft College and retired educator – nominated by Vice Chair Marcia Gershenson, District 11
- Dorothy J. Dean of Southfield, attorney, community activist and advocate for civil and human rights – nominated by Commissioner Janet Jackson, District 18
- Merilyn McGee of Holly, retired Groveland Township Fire Chief, first female fire chief in the state, and currently a local chaplin – nominated by Commissioner Bob Hoffman, District 7
- Jeanne Stine of Troy, community leader and retired school counselor – nominated by Commissioner Penny Luebs, District 2
- Patrice Waterman of Pontiac, community activist, former council legislative director and Pontiac city councilperson – nominated by Commissioner Angela Powell, District 9
The Board congratulates the recipients of this year’s Women’s History Month Award and celebrates ALL of the women across Oakland County who make important contributions in both small and big ways. Follow and like the Board’s Facebook page to see stories featured on each of the recipients in your feed.
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