We asked some of our female coaches and staff what Women's History Month means to them. Here are their answers:
 

	Women's History Month means I can appreciate how far women have come and how much they have persevered throughout history. It makes me thankful for the voice I have today in my career, in my politics, and in my home. And it makes me passionate to continue to advocate for equality and further women's and gender equality rights. UTRGV Volleyball Assistant Coach Leah Best
	It has only been 40 years since the NCAA began sponsoring women's championships. Women's History Month reminds me of all those who paved the way for my opportunity to compete at the collegiate level and inspires me to empower the next generation. UTRGV Deputy Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator Molly Castner
	Women's History Month is a chance to celebrate how far we've come yet make it known how far we still need to go to be seen as equals in every corner of the globe. It provides an opportunity to empower our sisters and advocate for those who don't have a voice. It is a reminder that to blaze a trail for the next generation of strong women, we need to lift them up every day so they can break glass ceilings also. UTRGV Associate Athletic Director for Academic Services Brenda Codallo
	Women's History Month reminds me that there are several women who came before me that opened up doors and helped put me in the position I'm in. The individual I personally give the most credit to is Farrah Manthei. When Farrah was my administrator, she repeatedly reminded me that I needed to keep grinding.  I'm sure if I spoke to Farrah today, she would remind me that my work is not done. I must keep grinding and also help others along the way. UTRGV Assistant Athletic Director for Academic Services Letty Hernandez
	Women's History Month is important to me because I consider myself fortunate to have been inspired by powerful women, either personally or through their positions of power. This is an opportunity for us to honor those women who paved the way for us. I also recognize that there is still work to do to achieve true equality, so Women's History Month is also a reminder that people of every gender need to continue to work together, because society is truly richer when each of its members is given the same opportunity to contribute and to thrive. UTRGV Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing Sara Hernandez
	Women have long played a vital role in history but have often been overlooked and unacknowledged. Women's History Month is about honoring and recognizing those women that have paved the way before us so that those young women that come after are inspired to achieve their dreams, whatever they may be. However, we should not confine the accomplishments of women to just one month, but instead celebrate our contributions to society on a daily basis. I am fortunate to be surrounded by strong, trailblazing women, women making history here at UTRGV that remind me that as a woman, I can do anything I set my mind to. UTRGV Compliance Coordinator Erica Hirsch
	This is a time to reflect on all the amazing women who have paved a way for us to have equal opportunities and to encourage us to keep on fighting for what is right and just. I think Serena Williams said it best – "The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you're very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble." UTRGV Women's Basketball Assistant Coach Keanna Keys
	Women's history month is a time of reflection, as a woman individually and as women collectively. I take this time to celebrate our wins and the long journey that's brought us up to now. I cherish the countless opportunities I've had in my life that weren't always possible or acceptable for women. I am grateful for those women that have pioneered our roles in society, a place that hardly existed not too long ago. I also use this time as a reminder to continue pushing for progress everywhere, all the time. UTRGV Director of Marketing and Digital Media Kara Lara
	This month is so special to me for many reasons. It reminds me what hard work and dedication can get you regardless of your sex. Playing softball growing up, I learned from a young age what it took to be successful on and off the field. Sports teaches you about life, but most importantly, it teaches you that you can play with the boys if you really want too. I am so grateful growing up around sports taught me that. UTRGV Ticket Sales and Operations Associate Tiffany Ochoa
	Women's History Month reminds me how blessed I am to be a woman today. It's a reminder and celebration of the incredible women that have broken so many barriers that make it possible for me to freely be who I am today. I am proud of the women in my life and the women I'm surrounded by for their resiliency, intelligence, and selflessness. Together, I am confident we can empower each other and be a part of the continuing fight for equality. To women, past, present, and future, thank you! UTRGV Women's Basketball Special Assistant to the Head Coach Victoria Pena
	Women's History Month is a celebration of the milestones women have achieved in our fight for equality. It is important that we do not stay complacent but continue striving for equal and fair opportunities just like the leaders before us have. UTRGV Coordinator for Student Development Julia Perez
	Women's History Month is a reminder of the feminist fight. Feminism is so important to me, essential even. It's the very reason I can even vote, own property, wear pants (I know) or even choose who I get to marry. Feminism is for all, because we are all born in this patriarchal society and therefore every person, all of us, we have been taught to behave, look, and even feel like we deserve certain treatments and ideologies that do not align with equal human rights. Women's History Month is a personal reminder of all the amazing, brave, and intelligent women, past and present, who have made change happen and opportunities possible for me and every single person in this planet. I have taken an oath as a community/society member/leader in sports to honor, carry, and encourage equal rights for all women, taking in consideration intersectional factors. Woman's History Month embodies my very life's goal and work's goal; to do my part in transcending feminism in a safe space of inclusion and love for future generations. UTRGV Volleyball Volunteer Assistant Paulina Ramirez