New CEO of National Women’s Hall of Fame Highlights Buffalo's Rich Legacy

Dr. Kristen Oehlrich, a Williamsville native, has recently assumed the role of CEO and Executive Director at the National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls.

 

She underscores the significant connections between Buffalo and the Hall's mission.

 

Oehlrich highlights that the Hall, located within a reasonable drive from Western New York, honors numerous women from the Buffalo area.

 

Among the over 300 inductees, she points out notable figures such as Mary Burnett Talbert, a prominent civil rights activist; Harriet Williams Russell Strong, an innovator in water conservation; and Marian de Forest, a trailblazing journalist and playwright.

 

In her new role, Oehlrich is dedicated to preserving and sharing these women's stories, emphasizing that many women's achievements have historically been overlooked.

 

She states, “We’re focused on highlighting women’s stories and achievements. However, women’s accomplishments, achievements, and stories have historically been written out of history, and it’s the mission of the Hall to help that traditional narrative and instead shine light on women’s achievements.”

 

The Hall recognizes women from diverse fields, including science, arts, education, social justice, politics, athletics, and the military.

 

However, institutions dedicated to women's history often face financial challenges.

 

Oehlrich points out that funding for such organizations is alarmingly low, with recent reports indicating it stands at just over two percent.

 

She emphasizes the need for increased support to ensure that women's voices and histories remain vibrant and accessible.

 

Support can take various forms, from monetary contributions and memberships to engaging with the Hall through social media and online platforms.

 

Oehlrich also encourages individuals to explore their own family histories, noting that many discover connections to significant women's movements within their own lineage.

 

Looking ahead, the National Women’s Hall of Fame is preparing for its biennial induction ceremony in 2026.

 

The inductees will be announced in March, with the formal enshrinement scheduled for September.

 

Oehlrich expresses her enthusiasm for the upcoming process, eager to witness firsthand the selection and celebration of the new class of inductees.