The mural they have created is a colorful & informative addition to West Philadelphia.
The mural was created as part of Bryn Mawr College's 125th anniversary and with the help of Health District 4 and local high school students. It not only promotes education, it honors those women who have made a difference in advancing the lives of other women.
Muralist Shira Walinsky and students at Parkway West High School put the finishing touches on the mural that now adorns the outer walls of Health District Number 4.
Bryn Mawr College has had a vibrant relationship with Parkway West High for several years.
"Our students are involved in mentoring and research, as well as tutoring with the students there and we're part of the Senior Project Initiative for the school district," Jenny Rickard, Chief Enrollment Officer at Bryn Mawr College, said.
Women were chosen to be honored on this mural by students from Parkway West, students and alumni from Bryn Mawr College, workers from Health District Number 4 and the community.
The honorees names and faces range from well known women like Sojourner Truth, Marion Anderson and Michelle Obama to prominent local woman Philadelphia's First Lady Lisa Nutter and city councilwoman, Janie Blackwell and to a Bryn Mawr College alum, who founded the first women's college in Japan, as well as two teachers at Parkway West High.
"I try to be as helpful as I can at all time, whatever they need; it's hard for kids today, so they need someone who encourages, supports, and just assists," teacher Sharon Carter said.
And sometimes the students are motivated to do the same.
"It's important because it shows strong women from all over," Parkway West graduate Latasha Billington said.
The mural at 4400 Haverford Avenue will certainly last beyond Bryn Mawr's 125th anniversary celebration.
