United States Senator from Illinois, Iraq War Veteran, and Purple Heart recipient Tammy Duckworth is a trailblazer for women in government and beyond. In addition to her many accomplishments as an advocate for women, veterans, and people with disabilities; she was among the first Army women to fly combat missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the first Senator to give birth while serving in office, and the first to bring their infant on the Senate floor following a historic procedural change she secured. At CHF Senator Duckworth and Marilynn Thoma Artistic Director Alison Cuddy discusses her extraordinary career and the impact of women leaders on public service.

This annual lecture honors the late Joanne H. Alter’s pioneering work on behalf of women interested in social action and public service.