Women’s Empowerment Club is dedicated to supporting women within the Cardinal Gibbons community, from students to educators. 

With March approaching, the club is preparing to celebrate Women’s History Month through a variety of fun and engaging activities held throughout the month. The club is run by Mrs. Amy Ernenwein, a sociology teacher for juniors and seniors and the Director of Professional Development.

Originally, the club was denied in spring of 2015, but the women who were told no didn’t give up. They continued to advocate for it, and eventually the club was officially approved in 2022. 

Two senior student leaders, Gracie Mihaylo and Anna Lindhart, alongside many other student leaders, run this club. Getting involved early in their high school careers, they have watched the club grow over time.

“There were so many incredibly strong and amazing women who served as great role models and formed meaningful friendships,” said Mihaylo. “There’s lighthearted, fun events and I think that’s just so great.”

Despite being a women’s club, it focuses on diversity and welcomes everyone, including boys. The club provides a supportive space for students to learn, share experiences, and uplift one another while promoting awareness of women’s issues within the school community.

“We’ve been doing biweekly meetings and making sure we have an environment where people feel supported,” said Lindhart.

There are eight leadership positions in the club, with many roles focusing on planning events while others focus on social media and outreach. Together, these leaders help organize meetings, activities, and initiatives that keep the club active and engaging for its members.

Through its events and welcoming environment, the Women’s Empowerment Club continues to create a space where students can celebrate women’s achievements, build confidence, and support one another.

“The ultimate goal of this club is inclusivity and making sure you feel supported,” Lindhart said.

The club’s meetings often include fun activities such as making vision boards for the year. Members are encouraged to share their thoughts, learn from each other’s experiences, and build friendships with people they may not have met otherwise. Through these conversations and activities, the club helps students feel more confident speaking with others and being outspoken about issues that affect women.

“I think the club for sure makes a difference by giving young women a safe space in our school.” Mihaylo said. “Being able to have other girls who relate to your issues is so important.” 

For many students, the Women’s Empowerment Club has become more than just another club at school. It serves as a space where students can feel supported, inspired, and encouraged to uplift one another. 

Through meetings, discussions, and events the Women’s empowerment club creates opportunities for students to share their experiences, learn from one another, and address issues affecting women today. Whether celebrating women’s history month, or having everyday conversations about confidence and equality, this club encourages students to use their voices to support each other in meaningful ways. 

As the club continues to grow, its leaders hope it will keep empowering students and reminding them of the importance of supporting women both inside and outside of the Cardinal Gibbons community.

“I hope the club just continues to grow. Seeing over the past four years that it’s grown so much has been amazing,” Lindhart said.

For students curious about getting involved in leadership, Lindhart encourages them to take the first step.

“Just say the word. The hardest thing is just starting. Especially when our school emphasizes leadership so much, it can be intimidating, but we’ll be welcoming,” Lindhart said.

With a strong leadership team and a growing number of members, the Women’s Empowerment Club continues to make an impact on the Cardinal Gibbons community by creating a welcoming environment where everyone can come and participate in the club’s activities. 

“We’re always welcoming and empowerment isn’t something to be afraid to show, you should feel empowered to empower other people.” Lindhart said.