Role Models Lift Us

Sen. Smith (left) was a role model for Sen. Collins (right).

When attending a White House forum last year on Girls Leadership and Civic Education, I heard story after story about the need for mentorship and role models for young women. As one panelist said, "You can't be what you can't see." The message was clear that women need to do a better job of helping other women. We have opportunities to serve as role models for younger women -- in our chapters and in our communities.  

Sen. Susan Collins recounted her visit in 1971 with Margaret Chase Smith, Sigma Kappa, who was the U.S. Senator from Maine. She said Sen. Smith told her how she was careful not to limit herself to "women's issues," instead asserting herself on committees in foreign policy and military affairs. Smith was the first woman to serve in both houses of Congress. In addition, she was the first woman to run for president on a major party ticket in 1964. She retired in 1973.

Collins said that time with Smith in her office shaped her thoughts with possibilities as a future civic leader. She also shared that she was raised by a mother who was chair of any board. These were positive role models in Collins' life who helped lift her up so she could see who she could be.

As we continue to mark women's history this month, look around and see who the role models are in your life. And think about how you can mentor other women.