WEST POINT – From the cockpit of a Navy jet to the halls of the Mississippi State Capitol and the front lines of civil rights, three local women have made their mark in history. Now, they’ll share their journeys and their vision for the future during a panel Saturday at the Black Prairie Blues Museum.

The panel “Women Who Make History” will run from 2 to 4 p.m. at the museum at 640 Commerce Street. The event will honor three trailblazing women who have made a lasting impact in their communities: Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill, State Senator Angela Turner-Ford of West Point and civil rights activist Laverne Greene-Leech of Columbus.

Museum Director Deborah Mansfield explained the significance of honoring these women during Women’s History Month by allowing each to share their personal journeys, challenges and hopes through the question and answer style panel.

“It’s important to honor these women and note that women make progress in many areas, especially in our Golden Triangle,” Mansfield said. “It’s important to note people in our community that make changes and do good for the community and the state, as well as the world, really.”

Greene-Leech played a pivotal role in desegregating Mississippi higher education as one of the first three African American undergraduate students at Mississippi State College for Women (now Mississippi University for Women) in 1966.

Reflecting on her experiences, she acknowledged the challenges she faced but emphasized the progress women continue to make. She plans to offer words of encouragement for women aspiring to break barriers.

“I just say to women, ‘Gender does not define you. Whatever you want to do, go for it,’” Greene-Leech said. “Women can be successful, and women will be successful.”

She continued, explaining that although there are still changes to be made to create more opportunities for women, she believes women are taking initiative rather than waiting for doors to open.

“I don’t think women are waiting around for changes,” she said. “I think women are just being aggressive and going for what they want. Once you’re prepared and the door opens, all you have to do is walk in.”

Though Turner-Ford was unavailable to speak to The Dispatch about the upcoming panel, she shared with Mansfield that she too, has navigated obstacles as a female leader.

“There have been some barriers in performing in male-dominated groups and fostering connection with my colleagues,” Turner-Ford said in a statement. “For the males I am in close communication with professionally, we embrace who we are. I no longer feel the need to assimilate.”

Spruill, who made history in 1979 as the first woman in the U.S. Navy to qualify as a carrier pilot, plans to offer her own advice to women pursuing success in male-dominated fields.

“… Know your job as well or better than everyone else. Be prepared and never quit,” Spruill said. “Always look for ways to improve and opportunities to be better.”

The panel discussion will last about 30 minutes, followed by an opportunity for attendees to speak one-on-one with panelists. The event will also feature live music and a chance to explore the Color & Shapes women’s student art exhibit.

The event is free and open to the public with no prior registration required.

“I’d love to see a lot of young women there,” Mansfield said. “I just hope everybody comes out.”