The Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE) is equipping educators with valuable resources to integrate Women’s History Month into economics and financial education lessons. These resources highlight the significant impact of women in business, finance, and entrepreneurship while fostering an understanding of key economic concepts. Through lesson plans, literature, and interactive activities, educators can empower students with knowledge about financial literacy and economic decision-making.
A variety of engaging materials are available on the MCEE website.
Through these resources, students will be introduced to women’s contributions to the economy and financial sector. They can explore topics such as the purchasing power of women, challenges faced by women in business, and the evolving roles of women in economic leadership.
Throughout history, women have shaped economics and business despite facing systemic challenges. For example, Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire in the U.S., overcame racial and gender barriers to build a thriving haircare empire that empowered Black Women economically and socially. Janet Yellen, the first female U.S. Treasury Secretary and former Chair of the Federal Reserve, has played a pivotal role in shaping economic policies, demonstrating the increasing presence of women in financial leadership. Rosalind Brewer, the former CEO of Walgreens and Starbucks’ first Black female COO, has shattered glass ceilings in corporate leadership, proving the growing influence of women in top decision-making roles. Similarly, Gita Gopinath, the first female chief Economist of the International Monetary Fund, has played a crucial role in shaping global financial policies.
These stories illustrate how women continue to drive economic change, overcome barriers, and create opportunities for future generations. By integrating these real-world examples into lesson plans and discussions, educators can inspire students to recognize and contribute to the ongoing evolution of women’s roles in finance, economics and business.
