Rising to the Challenge - Introduction by Senator Debbie Stabenow

Introduction by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, B.A. ’72 Social Science, Honors College; MSW ’76 Social Science; Honorary Doctor of Laws ’03

I’m honored to introduce four exceptional women who are showing the world what Spartans can do. The women you are going to read about share dedication, creativity and the willingness to work—sometimes against all odds—to make a difference. They come from different backgrounds and have different stories, but they share that ceaseless Spartan drive to change our world for the better.

I know a little something about that drive. The first time I ran for office—a seat on the Ingham County Board of Commissioners—I was 24 years old and completing my master’s degree in social work at MSU. I didn’t have much political experience. But I had a cause I believed in—keeping the Ingham County Medical Care Facility open so all of our seniors could get the health care they need.

I also had a Spartan willingness to work really hard. My opponent in the race derisively referred to me as “that young broad.” Then the young broad beat him!

In 2000, I was honored to be the first woman from Michigan to be elected to the United States Senate. Today I use my Spartan drive to champion issues important to our great state and our families.

The four women featured on the following pages are running state government, working on HIV prevention, breaking barriers in technology and improving the health and well-being of our children.

If you’re looking for inspiration, look no further than Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, Cookie Johnson and Priya Balasubramaniam. These women prove that Spartans Will!

Hear more from Senator Stabenow:

Meet the Spartan Women

Rising to the Challenge - Introduction by Senator Debbie Stabenow

Exceptional Spartan women share their dedication, creativity and the willingness to work to make a difference.

Spartan Magazine, Fall 2019

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer - Rising to the Challenge

With a passion for public service and a fierce dedication to challenging the status quo, Gov. Whitmer is striving for innovation and infrastructure improvements in Michigan.

Spartan Magazine, Fall 2019

Earleatha “Cookie” Johnson – Rising to the Challenge

During the many challenges she’s faced in life, Cookie Johnson has drawn on her faith and self-worth with a determination to be a force for good.

Spartan Magazine, Fall 2019

Priya Balasubramaniam – Rising to the Challenge

With steady determination and optimism, Priya became one of the most powerful female engineers and is an inspiration to young women pursuing careers in STEM.

Spartan Magazine, Fall 2019