News Summary
As 2025 approaches, Tallahassee gears up for the 19th annual celebration of Women’s History Month with the ’25 Women You Need to Know’ honors. This event recognizes the impactful contributions of women in the community. Additionally, the city celebrates its veterans with the success of the 10th Honor Flight, bringing 76 heroes to Washington, D.C. This year also sees the dedication of ‘Veronica Wiggins Field,’ honoring the legendary softball coach at FAMU, showcasing the strength and resilience of both women and veterans in the community.
Celebration of Women and Honoring Veterans in Tallahassee
Tallahassee is buzzing with excitement as 2025 approaches, marking the 19th annual celebration of Women’s History Month with the ever-popular 25 Women You Need to Know honors. So, if you know some amazing women making waves in the community, now is your chance to give them the recognition they deserve!
Who Are The Luminaries?
Since its inception in 2006, this heartfelt tradition has honored over 500 incredible women for their contributions to the community. Whether they have dedicated their lives to service or have made a significant mark in their professions, these luminary ladies are worth knowing about. The honors inspire others and highlight the importance of female empowerment. Nominations are open until February 14, 2025, at 5 p.m., so be sure to make your voice heard!
A Special Young Women Category
This year also marks a milestone for the Young Women category, which has been a part of the program since 2014. What better way to lift up the next generation than to highlight their outstanding efforts in our community? To nominate someone, you can visit data.tallahassee.com/nominate-25-women and fill out the easy-to-complete nomination form. And if you’re curious about past winners, check them out at tallahassee.com/25women.
A Celebration of Our Veterans
Furthermore, Tallahassee has been busy also honoring its brave veterans! The Honor Flight Tallahassee organization recently wrapped up its 10th annual flight, which transported 76 veterans to Washington, D.C., for a day of remembrance and gratitude. Nearly 300 people gathered at the airport to welcome these heroes home, celebrating the sacrifice and courage they displayed while serving our country.
Making Memories at Memorials
During their trip, veterans visited iconic memorials, including those dedicated to the Korean and Vietnam Wars. For a 104-year-old World War II veteran, this was a truly emotional day, marked by the pride of seeing memorials honoring the dedication of service members like him. The significance of this trip cannot be undermined; for many, it was a journey that brought closure and joy.
Heartfelt Welcome Home
The heartwarming ceremony featured students from the Naval Academy who greeted the veterans with cheerful signs and flags, creating a vibrant atmosphere that radiated appreciation. Many veterans expressed deep gratitude for the trip and the opportunity to reflect on their service at the memorials. The emotional moments continued to build, especially during the visit to the Vietnam Memorial, where some veterans shared painful memories related to their experiences.
Honoring Women Veterans
Women veterans—who have always played a crucial role—were also present, sharing their stories and experiences during this memorable trip. Each shared journey further emphasized the spirit of resilience and commitment among veterans. Another significant stop was Arlington National Cemetery, which served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by service members throughout history.
Emotional Farewell
On the return flight, the veterans were touched with heartfelt letters and photographs that stirred emotional responses. It’s moments like these that remind everyone of the dedication of our service men and women and the lives they have touched.
A Tribute to Coaching Excellence
In another shining highlight for Tallahassee, the FAMU softball complex will soon be renamed “Veronica Wiggins Field” in honor of the legendary coach Veronica Wiggins. From 1992 to 2020, Wiggins led the FAMU softball program to extraordinary success, including achieving 726 wins and 13 MEAC Championships.
Recognition and Legacy
The field’s dedication ceremony was emotional, packed with tributes from former players and FAMU officials who shared their appreciation for her guidance and mentorship. Wiggins holds the unique distinction of being the only HBCU head coach to surpass the 700-win milestone. Current FAMU head coach Camise Patterson credits her success to Wiggins’ legacy that paved the way for the team.
Softball Victories
Those who enjoyed the beautiful Tallahassee weather recently witnessed the FAMU softball team defeat Jacksonville University in their doubleheader opener with a score of 5-2. It’s always exciting to see talents thrive!
Tallahassee is certainly alive with celebrations and stories that reflect the strength and perseverance of its remarkable residents. So, whether you are nominating someone for the 25 Women You Need to Know, or welcoming veterans, there’s much to celebrate in this vibrant community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Now is the Time to Nominate Someone for 25 Women in 2025 Honors
- Wikipedia: Women’s History Month
- Tallahassee.com: Honor Flight Tallahassee Celebrates 76 Veterans
- Google Search: Honor Flight
- Tallahassee.com: Oasis Honors Tallahassee’s Cecile Reynaud with 2024 Legacy Award
- Google Scholar: Women Empowerment
- Tallahassee.com: FAMU Softball Field Named after Coach Veronica Wiggins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s Sport
- Tallahassee.com: Rattler Rewind – FAMU MEAC HOF’s White Impacts Women’s Basketball
- Google News: Tallahassee Veterans
