In celebration of Women’s History Month, Dr. Rhea Lawson spoke to an assembly of students and faculty last Tuesday in the public events room of the John B. Coleman Library. The lecture drew in a sizable crowd of faculty members as well as students. Lawson spoke following an energetic introduction by Kimberly M. Gay and a moving musical selection by Dr. Wash A Jones.
Lawson covered a number of topics, including the importance of commemorating Women’s History Month, and the work women have done in the past to support future generations.
“If brave women had not kicked down the doors and held them open, many would not have the opportunities of today. I, myself, would not be here,” said Lawson, who spoke for several minutes on the importance of her personal mentors.
Lawson paid special attention to the evolution of history and the sacrifice of women. Lawson is the first black woman to direct the Houston Public Library, and one of the few women in the United States to direct a library in a major metropolitan area.
She also gave special attention to the importance of leadership, saying that the road to success lies in developing good leadership skills, as well as giving back to one’s community. “When you get give,” Lawson stressed, recalling the words of Maya Angelou, “when you learn, teach.”
Lawson, who is currently serving as director of the Houston Public Library System has also served on the Public Library Associated Board of Directors and the Black Caucus of the American Library Association
The presentation was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from students, several of which spoke of Lawson’s attention to the historical importance of women.