America250PA hosted a special Women’s History Month Luncheon and Panel at the Whitaker Center for Science & the Arts, featuring distinguished women in public life discussing service, leadership, and the civic values guiding Pennsylvania’s future.
The event brought together Pennsylvania’s First Ladies—past and present—Lori
Shapiro, Frances Wolf, and Michele Ridge, along with Dr. Jill Biden, former First and
Second Lady of the United States and a proud Pennsylvania native. The conversation
was moderated by actress and author Melissa Fitzgerald, another Pennsylvania native
best known for her role on The West Wing.
“I was honored to join this incredible group of First Ladies who have served our
Commonwealth and our country. Pennsylvania women have made a huge impact on
our communities and been driving forces for positive change—going back to the
founding of Pennsylvania and Hannah Penn, who played a major role in building and
leading this Commonwealth,” said Pennsylvania’s First Lady Lori Shapiro. “During
Women’s History Month, we honor the generations of Pennsylvania women who laid the
foundation for the work we do today. As First Lady, I’m inspired by the women I meet all
across the Commonwealth who are bringing people together and making a difference in
their communities.”
Panelists reflected on stepping into the role of First Lady and the opportunity to use that
platform to champion initiatives that strengthen communities. The conversation
highlighted the importance of advancing issues that affect women and families,
including education, health, and access to opportunity. Speakers also discussed how
mentorship, motherhood, and personal experience shape women’s leadership and
public service.
The event was held during Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the
generations of women whose contributions have helped shape Pennsylvania over 250
years of American history.
“Today we heard from leaders who have served Pennsylvania and our nation with
grace, determination, and compassion,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director
of America250PA. “We’re grateful to our extraordinary guests for inspiring the next
generation of Pennsylvania women to believe in public service, trust their own voice,
and support one another.”
Proceeds from the luncheon will support America250PA’s Semiquincentennial
Scholarship Program, which will award $250,000 in scholarships to Pennsylvania
high school seniors attending in-state colleges and universities during the 2026–2027
academic year.
