*Disclaimer: Throughout the history of the Role of Women in Society course, the women contained on this page have taken the time to meet with students, either in person or via Skype. Their presence on this page does not constitute an endorsement of the program, and should not be inferred as such. Thank you.

Julie Stav spoke with students about building their own personal wealth and investing in their futures. She shared stories relating to her struggles as a second language learner.

Dee Dee Myers was the first female White House Press Secretary. Upon reading her book, Why Women Should Rule the World, I was inspired to contact Ms. Myers to speak with my students. She invited us into her office in DC and was the first woman of stature to show she believed in the students of the Central Valley. Her "yes" motivated me to reach out to the other women you see on this page.

The White House Project was kind enough to provide us with a representative who highlighted the ways in which young women could increase their visibility in the political realm.

While concluding her tenure as the First Lady of California, Ms. Shriver was kind enough to speak with students and answer questions that they had developed. We were pretty excited when she highlighted us on her website: www.mariashriver.com and when she tweeted about us!

Jess Weiner is the global ambassador for Dove's Campaign on Real Beauty. A consistent supporter of the class, she has donated books and offered ongoing support. We are currently trying to arrange an in person visit with the women's studies students.

Veronika Scott was kind enough to respond to a student request for an interview. While her time was limited to a 30 minute interview with the students, she was so impressed by the quality of the questions, she extended it by another 15 minutes. Additionally, she has agreed to speak to future classes.

Natalie Randolph is truly in a league of her own. As the first female high school football coach in the nation, she did an incredible job of highlighting that anyone can pursue their passion: gender is not a limiting factor. Dinner with Natalie and women's studies students also saw the arrival of several of her players who shared insights and experiences of having her as a coach.

Whitney Wolanin gave our women's studies students the first chance to hear her hit "Wrong Guy." She then came and performed for our entire school and for the prom. She is an incredible role model.

Amy Trask was the CEO of the Raiders at the time of the students' interviewing of her. She made it clear that it was her hard work and determination that earned her respect in the male dominated world of the NFL. She openly discussed the effective means of overcoming challenges and not simply attributing obstacles as being connected to gender.

Gloria Steinem is an internationally known feminist and activist. Our women's studies class holds the distinction of being Gloria's first Skype session ever. When we met up with her at Stanford, she told the audience that our Skype session changed the way she reached out to others.

Madeline Di Nonno is the CEO of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. In her Skype session with students, she drew attention to the manner in which girls and women are portrayed in the media. She even shared her own experiences of working in the television industry.

Congresswoman Roybal-Allard was in the midst of speaking and debating a bill on the floor of the House. Yet, she made time to meet with us in her personal officer. She was kind, outgoing and personable. Even as her aides continuously reminded her of her need to be on the floor, she took time for some additional discussion and a group photo.

Kris Wittenberg's premise is clear and to the point. Be good to people! Her Skype session with students highlighted the power of kindness and how it can improve the quality of life for everyone.

Senator Barbara Boxer took some time to meet with students in Washington, DC.

Esther Aguilera is the president and CEO of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. She took the time to meet with us in her offices in Washington, DC. She also employs one of our class alum: Fernando Almaraz.

Susannah Wellford-Shakow is the president and founder of Running Start. This incredible organization strives to provide young women with the tools they need to seek public office. Summer programs and mentoring allow young women's dreams the opportunity to become realities.