Cleveland's always been a place where trailblazers make waves, and we're shining a light on ten fearless women who've left their mark on The Land and beyond, from rocking the music world to fighting for what's right. These women from diverse backgrounds and fields share one thing in common: a relentless drive to make a difference.
Adella Prentiss Hughes
A powerhouse in American music education, Adella Prentiss Hughes co-founded the Cleveland Orchestra in 1918, reshaping accessibility to music education. Born in 1869, she tirelessly advocated for music to be a vital part of every individual's life, pushing for its inclusion in schools and communities.
Jane Scott
Born in 1919, Jane Scott was a legendary force in Cleveland's music journalism scene. From her early days as a secretary at Cleveland Press to her tenure as a reporter for The Plain Dealer, she carved her niche in music journalism. Known for her fiery passion, she was among the first to exclusively cover rock legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin and Bruce Springsteen.
Stephanie Tubbs Jones
Stephanie Tubbs Jones, born in 1949, was a distinguished public servant in American politics. Making history as Cuyahoga County's first female African American judge and then as Ohio's first African American Congresswoman, she passionately championed social justice, healthcare reform and economic opportunity. Notably, in her inaugural year in Congress, Tubbs Jones drove the passage of the Child Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Act of 1999.
Dorothy Fuldheim
Dorothy Fuldheim, born in 1893, was a pioneering journalist and television personality renowned for her unwavering pursuit of truth. In 1947, she became the first woman in the United States to anchor a television news broadcast. With her incisive interviews and sharp intellect, Fuldheim covered major historical events — from World War II to the Civil Rights Movement — during her remarkable 37-year tenure at WEWS-TV.
Rowena Jelliffe
Born in 1892, Rowena Jelliffe was an influential activist and community organizer. As co-founder of Karamu House, one of the nation's oldest African American theaters, she gave Black artists a platform to tackle racial issues through the arts. Jelliffe's activism knew no bounds — she fought housing discrimination, rallied voter registration drives and campaigned relentlessly for civil rights legislation.
Ruby Dee
Born in Cleveland in 1922, Ruby Dee — a beloved actress, playwright and fierce civil rights activist — was a force to be reckoned with. Known for her powerful performances portraying the complexities of African American women, she earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in "American Gangster" in 2007. Beyond the stage and screen, Dee fearlessly championed social justice, using her platform to fight against racial inequality.
Dorothy Dandridge
Dorothy Dandridge stole the spotlight in Hollywood's golden age with her mesmerizing talent and beauty. Born in 1922, she shattered barriers as the first African American woman nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Carmen Jones,” defying the industry's racial discrimination. Beyond the silver screen, Dandridge dazzled audiences as a powerhouse vocalist, gracing iconic stages like the Cotton Club and the Apollo Theater.
Belle Sherwin
Born in 1869 to Henry Alden Sherwin, founder of the Sherwin-Williams Co., Belle Sherwin tirelessly advocated for women's rights and social reform. Leading the Consumer’s League of Ohio in 1900, she kicked off her activist journey and later, alongside fellow suffragists, established the Cleveland Women’s City Club, fiercely pushing for progressive policies. During WWI, she spearheaded the Ohio Branch of the Woman’s Committee of the Council of National Defense, orchestrating women’s work in factories and the Red Cross, food conservation drives and selling war bonds.
Bernice Goetz
Born in 1909, Bernice Goetz was a trailblazing figure in women's healthcare, fighting fiercely for reproductive rights and access to contraception. As co-founder of Planned Parenthood Cleveland, she revolutionized reproductive healthcare. Initially a secretary by profession, Goetz gained fame for her daring expeditions into the jungles of Central and South America, challenging traditional gender roles with every step.
Jane Edna Hunter
An outspoken social worker and activist born in 1882, Jane Edna Hunter dedicated her life to improving the lives of African American women and children. In 1911, she founded the Working Girls Home Association, later known as the Phyllis Wheatley Association, which provided housing, employment opportunities and support to women migrating from the South. Hunter's legacy remains a beacon for ongoing social justice and equality movements.
