MI Women’s Hall of Fame seeks medallion redesign

Calling all female artists who have a passion for history and equal rights. The Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame is looking for a talented local woman to create a new medallion. Eventually, the new design will be used to commemorate future inductees. In fact, the hall of fame medallion design that is selected will be on a display at the museum going forward.

Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame

The Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame was established in 1983. Its purpose is to highlight the history and accomplishments of local women. It honors both the past and present. New honorees are selected annually after a public nomination process. Anyone may nominate a Michigan women that they deem worthy. For example, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently nominated Huldah Neal, it’s first female conservation officer. Those chosen are then officially inducted into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony each October.

Change in Leadership

The catalyst for the desired artistic change is a re-branding effort. It comes on the heels of a newly minted acquisition of the organization by Michigan Women’s Foundation (MWF). The nonprofit works to achieve social and economic equality for Michigan’s women and girls. It is in the process of becoming known as Michigan Women Forward.

Current Hall of Fame Medallion

The existing hall of fame medallion, which has been given to all honorees since 1983, was created by Alixandra Summitt of Okemos. Summitt’s design consists of three important figures from Michigan history. First, Anna Howard Shaw is on the right. Second, Sojourner Truth is featured. Lastly, Anna Clemenc appears on the right. Shaw was a leader in the national women’s suffrage movement. Sojourner Truth was a former slave who became an outspoken crusader for human rights. Last, but by no means least, Anna Clemenc was the wife of a Croatian miner. She helped lead the historic 1913 copper strike in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Together, these women represent the three principal themes of the early women’s movement. That is, they were seeking political, social, and economic justice. After thirty five years, the new hall of fame medallion is meant to honor the past. Yet it should also reframe the role of women. The goal is to reflect the renewed vision of the organization, as well as a more modern society. Thus, a society where women are recognized leaders who thrive, contribute and uplift the state’s future.

Design Competition

Design entries are being accepted from July 5 – August 31. Entries must be submitted in a pdf format. Each should be accompanied by a short paragraph explaining the design. Moreover, the design entry should explain why it should be chosen.

Submissions should be sent to info@michiganwomen.org. Use the subject line: Hall of Fame Medallion Contest Entry.

A final decision will be made shortly after the entry period ends. The winning artist will be contacted directly. The next ceremony will be held on October 18, 2018.