The Plaza of Heroines is a circular plaza constructed with engraved bricks and granite
pavers which permanently record the names of women honored as heroines. A sweep of engraved granite benches defines the space and compliments the Plaza's
focal point — a bronze sculpture by Sophia Vari entitled Danseuse Espagnole ("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.
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 Wichita State University. 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 WSU, are welcome to pay loving tribute
to women they wish to recognize as heroines. Proceeds from the Plaza project benefit
the WSU 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.
