So, I find myself in a peculiar position. Being an Academic Staff employee at UW-Green Bay, I’m at the periphery of academia. I operate in an office that expects real, tangible production work, but by nature of higher education have abundant opportunities for cerebral engagement.

I’m fortunate to have had strong, intellectual women welcome me into the folds of their knitting circles, lecture series and Facebook groups. So often, among those amazing, intelligent women, I’ve fancied myself the token stupid girl with superficial talents and concerns…such that I’ve never considered myself a feminist. I’m not sure if it’s by stereotype or by influence of the aforementioned women, I immediately associate feminism as something for intelligent, strong women. Since I only identify myself with one of the three, is feminism for me? Furthermore, is this notion of feminism accessible to those who aren’t women, don’t think they’re smart, and have low self-esteem? Can I prescribe to the advancement of the female half of society at my own comfort level with the faculties I’m gifted? Is it enough for me to be thankful that, as a woman, I can be a self-sufficient professional? Or is my weakness, in itself, counter to the movement?

In celebration of Women’s History Month, a nationally acclaimed scholar in gender studies, Dr. Anne Fausto-Sterling, is coming to UW-Green Bay. I will have the opportunity to not only converse with, but introduce, this gender studies rock-star and the first thought that comes to my mind is, “I am not worthy.”

Informal Discussion with Academic Staff <–please come…please?
(tomorrow) Thurs, March 8, 2012 at 10 a.m. in the 1965 Room, University Union

Other events include:
“How do Naked Newborns Become Boys or Girls?”
(tonight) at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, Rose Hall 250

International Women’s Day Luncheon keynote speaker
(tomorrow) at Noon, Thursday, March 8, University Union Alumni Room

P.S. I just found out I have the privilege of giving her a ride to campus tomorrow. My car is not worthy, either.