Belmont celebrates women’s achievements through the month of March on campus
Belmont hosted a series of campus events and activities this month honoring and empowering women’s excellence in academics, athletics and community impact.
Students, faculty and staff had opportunities to learn, connect and engage with stories and experiences that celebrated women’s achievements and influence in the Nashville community and beyond under the theme: Let Her Bloom.
Christina Edmondson: On Faithful Anti-Racism
Rev. Dr. Christina Edmondson, a respected voice in Christian spaces, spoke during chapel to kick off the month’s list of events. As co-host of the podcast Truth’s Table and co-author of Faithful Anti-Racism, Edmondson is an active voice reshaping how churches and faith communities engage in conversations about race and justice.
During chapel, Edmondson challenged listeners to consider their own faith and how they are personally connecting faith to action in the context of racial injustices. She explained that confronting racism is not optional but central to the Christian life.
“Racism takes root in our lives and shows up in how we see each other socially, psychologically and spiritually,” said Edmondson.
She also shared the conviction and idea that has shaped much of her work: to be faithful to God is to be faithful in actively dismantling racism in all its forms.
“When you are going to dismantle something that should not be, you must work at it over and over again,” she said.
Through her work and impact, Edmondson continues to blaze a trail for women of faith committed to justice, courage and meaningful change.
In Her Honor: Celebrating Woman Achievement
The In Her Honor Women's Luncheon returned for its second year to close out Women's History Month with a celebration of the outstanding women who make Belmont's community what it is.
Belmont Professor of Social Work Dr. Carmen Reese Foster, delivered this year's address during the luncheon, focusing on what it looks like as a woman to bloom and flourish in life. Using the biblical story of Mary and Martha, Reese Foster displayed how even service and hospitality can become distractions in life, and to truly flourish, you must take time to slow down and simply “be.”
“Flourishing happens in the quiet places, it’s not a loud thing” Reese Foster shared. “Anybody can show up and be flashy like a petal in bloom, but if it doesn’t have root, it will not last.”
Reese Foster encouraged the audience that blooming takes patience in our hurried and busy society.
“While you are waiting, you’re already blooming, and God is the one who chooses that appointed time for you to show your blooms to the world,” she said.
2026 In Her Honor Award Recipients
This award recognizes an individual who has made a lasting impact on the Belmont community and exemplifies excellence through academic, social and organizational initiatives.
Peers of Dr. Bryant state that she is always making sure no students “fall through the cracks” during any kind of difficulty. Bryant’s office is one where students find compassionate support and guidance, making her an important piece to the Belmont community.
This award celebrates a faculty or staff member who makes a significant impact on the community outside of the campus grounds. This individual’s leadership service helps amplify the voices of women and those who are in need.
Friends of Ivey-Soto shared that her work with single moms, families and individuals in Nashville “directly bridges the gap between the classroom and the community, modeling active citizenship for her students.” Ivey-Soto's tireless advocacy for others is recognized deeply by the Belmont community
This award recognizes a faculty or staff member who, despite being newer to the university, has made immediate and significant contributions through innovation and dedication. This leader brings a fresh perspective and passionate insights to the Belmont community.
Buggy has stepped into her role with passion and grit, as she has built programs from the ground up in the Almost Alumni department. Her peers say her “energy and passion ensure every student and alumni feels seen, heard and supported.”
This award celebrates an individual who demonstrates a consistent collaborative spirit – connecting departments and building meaningful relationships on campus.
Gibbs continuously goes beyond the standard point of contact, building lasting relationships between offices such as Student Care and Support and the College of Medicine. Colleagues say that Gibbs’s warmth and professionalism leave a lasting impression on teams she encounters.
This award recognizes a faculty or staff member of over 10 years whose contributions have shaped Belmont’s campus. It honors a legacy of leadership, integrity and excellence through years of dedication.
Since 2005, Mills has been an integral part of the development of research at Belmont. She played a vital role in developing curriculum for the Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine, served a variety of roles in Lila D. Bunch Library and is a dedicated friend to her community.
Other Women’s Events of March
Throughout the course of the month, several other events were held on campus to continue the celebration of female empowerment. Events included:
- Women’s Intramural Sports at Belmont University
- The Rejuvenation Room
- Dr. Emily Smith, The Science of a Good Samaritan
- Crosswinds of Courage Film Showing
- Bloom Bar: DIY Floral Bouquets
- Dr. Deborah Haarsma, Christian Faith and Faithfulness to Science
As Women’s History Month ends, Belmont’s “Let Her Bloom” celebration leaves behind more than just a series of events and speakers; it strengthens a continued commitment to honoring women’s voices, stories and impact. Through moments of reflection, learning and community, this month’s programming served as a reminder that the work of uplifting and empowering women extends far beyond March.
Learn More
Learn more about the program in this story