Women's History Month

March 2, 2026

Dear Wolf Pack Family, 

We are nearly approaching the mid-way point of the spring semester, and I hope it is treating you all well.

March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary impact of women throughout our campus history, state and nation.

While we celebrate these historic milestones, we also acknowledge the innumerable contributions that often go unrecognized. From our University’s earliest days, women have been foundational to our growth and remain vital to our continued excellence. Through their work on campus or their professional careers, these women have been instrumental in shaping the reputation and history of our University. Some of these pioneering women include:  

• Luella Lilly was a groundbreaking figure at the University. During her tenure in women’s athletics at the University from 1969-76, she was a progressive, determined and principled administrator and coach who championed the rights of female athletes to realize their fullest potential.  
• Margery McKnight Carr was the only woman and the third in history to have graduated from the Mackay School of Mines in 1951. Her career path led her to serve in K-12 education for 27 years. Additionally, she was first principal of Reno’s Elmcrest Elementary School when it opened in 1958. She often encouraged students to explore rock collections and pursue interests in geology.
• Mary Turner, M.D., was the only woman in the University of Nevada School of Medicine class in 1973. During that time, only 7 percent of graduating medical students were women. She served as a general practice doctor for 30 years.
• Two female alumnae from the Reynolds School of Journalism are Pulitzer Prize winners including Susan Forrest, who won the award in 1988 for an Lawrence Eagle-Tribune investigation that revealed serious flaws in the Massachusetts prison furlough system; and Kristen Go, who won the award in 2000 for her clear and balanced coverage in the Denver Post of the student massacre at Columbine High School. 

These women, along with several others who have had a presence on our campus, have helped shape the level of excellence our University prides itself on.

Throughout March, there will be several opportunities to celebrate the legacy and future of women on campus and in our community. For a list of events commemorating this special month, please visit the University’s event webpage. 

While we celebrate the significant strides made, we know the journey toward gender equality is far from complete. When we commit to uplifting and supporting women in every space, we create a stronger University and a more equitable world for all. 

Go Pack!

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President