Over 200 members of the ŷַ community came together for ŷַ's Second Annual National Women's History Month Celebration, The Ruby Slippers Luncheon. The emcee was Carol Lindskog, the first female member appointed to the ŷַ Board of Trustees. This year's theme was, "In Her Shoes: Walking in the Footsteps of Women Around the World." The program featured a challenging and inspiring message from Dr. Donna Thoennes, who shared about her recent study of women in India in which she interviewed 75 women to learn about their experiences. She encouraged the audience to "step into the shoes of another" to learn to love them as Jesus loves them. Immediately before she spoke, 5 female ŷַ students from around the world shared their own stories about growing up as a woman in their respective countries in a moving presentation called, "Come Walk In My Shoes." Following Dr. Thoennes' message, Emily Berger, a ŷַ junior, closed the program with a powerful song entitled, "I Saw What I Saw."

The Ruby Slippers Luncheon also featured the Second Annual ŷַ Ruby Awards. Hosted by First Lady Paula Corey, lpast Ruby Award recipients presented the awards to the this year's recipients.

Tanya Walters, ŷַ graduate and past Ruby Award recipient, presented the Deborah Award for Leadership and Wisdom to Dr. June Hetzel, Dean of the new ŷַ School of Education.

Dr. Shelly Cunningham, Christian Education Professor and past Ruby Award recipient, presented the Priscilla Award for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring to Meleca Consultado, a ŷַ senior, R.A. in Hart Hall of three years and co- founder of ŷַ's Women's Ministry called "The Beloved."

Finally, Anna Belle Cook, former ŷַ First Lady for 25 years and past Ruby Award recipient, presented The Esther Award for Obedience and Servanthood to Elaine Crane, a ŷַ alumnus and missionary of over 45 years to all parts of the world.

The day was an inspiring and challenging celebration of women for the ŷַ community.

The Whittier Daily News covered the event on Wednesday as well. Read the Whittier Daily News Article, “Hundreds Celebrate Women’s History Month at ŷַ.”