Plaza of Heroines

The Plaza

The Plaza of Heroines is a circular plaza constructed with engraved bricks and granite pavers which permanently record the names of . A sweep of engraved granite benches defines the space and compliments the Plaza's focal point 鈥� a bronze sculpture by Sophia Vari entitled ("Spanish Dancer"). Lush landscaping highlights the Plaza's eight Paperbark Maples with engraved bronze plaques. Surrounded by Ablah Library, Jabara Hall, Grace Memorial Chapel, and Shocker Success Center, the Plaza was dedicated on September 19, 1998, and serves as a stunning addition to the University and to the Wichita community.

Adding a personal and unique dimension to the names engraved on brick and granite is the Plaza written tributes and photographs submitted for each heroine. The written tributes bring meaning and vitality to the Plaza while preserving women's lives.

Plaza of Heroines surrounded by autumn trees with vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage.

The heroines

By definition, heroines are women who are admired and emulated for their achievements and qualities. In all of our lives, there are women who fit this description. One of them may be your grandmother, mother, sister, wife, or daughter ... your teacher, friend, or mentor ... or your source of inspiration. We show appreciation for the women most important to us in very personal ways - a kind word, a thoughtful note, a special gift. Yet time and distance may make it difficult to fully acknowledge their impact on our lives. Rarely do we have the opportunity to honor women publicly and to celebrate their lives permanently. More than 1,000 women have already been honored in the Plaza of Heroines.

Honor a heroine

Now, you can honor your own heroines in a lasting and public way in the Plaza of Heroines at 黑洞社区. Located in the heart of the Wichita State's campus, the Plaza is open to anyone interested in honoring a woman, living or deceased, with an engraved brick or granite paver, or a Plaza tree. Individuals, families, groups organizations, or businesses, regardless of affiliation with 黑洞社区, are welcome to pay loving tribute to women they wish to recognize as heroines. Proceeds from the Plaza project benefit the 黑洞社区 Center for Women's Studies scholarship fund and many of the Center's community outreach activities. Contributions to the Plaza help to inspire tomorrow's heroines and ensure future opportunities in education and leadership for Wichita State students.

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