CHANGE Championing

Recognizing the Remarkable Women of the Missouri Athletic Club During Women’s History Month

In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month in perpetuity, and shortly thereafter, the first female Member was welcomed to the exclusive Missouri Athletic Club. She also happened to be the first American athlete to win a gold medal in the Olympic long jump and the first woman to win back-to-back gold medals in the heptathlon. Jackie-Joyner Kersee is considered one of the greatest female athletes in history, and her membership opened the doors for many women as the MAC expanded its facilities and programs to serve the needs of its female Members better.

Since then, women have played an essential role in the Club’s history and its continued success, including history-making leadership roles. In 2021, Angie Minges, a Strategic Planning Leader at Nestlé Purina, became the MAC’s first female president. Minges also chaired the Women’s Initiative Group (WIG), a committee established to support and encourage the involvement of women at the Club. The WIG hosts events and programs specifically for women, as well as promotions, networking, and mentorship opportunities for its Members. Currently, MAC treasurer Cheri McLaughlin and Jodi Petersen are serving terms on the Board of Governors. McLaughlin is poised to begin her term as newlyelected First Vice President in May 2023. In recent years, Julie Ahrling, Judith Hanses and Rebekah Kingston have also dedicated their time and expertise toward guiding the Board of Governors. Their valuable insight and contributions to the Club significantly and positively impacted the status of the Club today.

Women’s History Month celebrates women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements throughout history. It’s a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the women who came before us and recognize the ongoing efforts to achieve true equality.

Today, after 120 years, the MAC is a thriving community of men and women from diverse backgrounds and interests who come together to socialize, network and participate in a wide range of athletic and cultural activities. The Club’s commitment to promoting fitness and wellness in a welcoming and inclusive environment for all Members remains a cornerstone of its mission. The MAC is opening its vault of treasures to commemorate the Club’s 120th Anniversary, where Members will discover rarely seen original images, artifacts, and storytelling. YOUR MAC MOMENTS SHARED

Be a part of history and let the MAC know why you enjoy being a Member. Look for Communications