Women of the West: Making an Impact Across Generations
Wyoming has long been known as the Equality State, setting the stage for women to break barriers and redefine history. In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting eight Wyoming women who have shaped politics, art, medicine, business, and philanthropy. From the first female governor in the United States to modern changemakers, these women exemplify resilience, leadership, and innovation.
NELLIE TAYLOE ROSS
First Female Governor | Political Trailblazer | Advocate for Women’s Rights
In 1925, Nellie Tayloe Ross made history as the first female governor in the United States, stepping into the role after the passing of her husband, Governor William B. Ross. Despite the obstacles of the era, she championed policies focused on education, financial reform, and women’s rights. Her influence extended beyond Wyoming, as she later became the first woman to serve as Director of the U.S. Mint, shaping national monetary policy for nearly two decades.
VERNA KEAYS KEYES
Flag Designer | Symbol of Wyoming Identity | Artistic Visionary
In 1916, Verna Keays Keyes, a Buffalo, Wyoming native, submitted the winning design for the Wyoming state flag--which one her $20 (which equates to about $582 today). Her striking image of a bison with the state seal embedded in its silhouette has become an enduring symbol of Wyoming’s heritage. At just 23 years old, she ensured that Wyoming’s flag would reflect the strength, independence, and history of the state.
LILLIAN HEATH
Wyoming’s First Female Doctor | Medical Pioneer | Fearless Innovator
Born in 1865, Lillian Heath became Wyoming’s first female physician, practicing in Rawlins at a time when few women entered the medical field. She studied under Dr. Thomas Maghee and later attended medical school, returning to Wyoming to treat everything from childbirth to bullet wounds. She even assisted in early surgical experiments using the skull of outlaw Big Nose George Parrott, proving her fearlessness and dedication to medical advancements.
NELTJE
Renowned Artist | Philanthropist | Cultural Pioneer
Born in 1934, Neltje was a celebrated abstract artist, writer, and philanthropist who made a lasting impact on Wyoming’s arts and culture. She turned her northern Wyoming ranch into an artistic retreat, fostering creativity in the state. Her work has been exhibited nationally, and her contributions to the arts continue through the Neltje Center for Excellence in Creativity and the Arts at the University of Wyoming.
NIMI MCCONIGLEY
Political First | Advocate for Diversity | Media Leader
Born in India, Nimi McConigley broke barriers as the first Indian-born woman to serve in a U.S. state legislaturewhen she was elected to the Wyoming House of Representatives in 1994. A journalist and advocate for minority representation, she worked to elevate voices often overlooked in Wyoming’s political landscape. Her tenure paved the way for greater inclusivity and diversity in state leadership.
Nimi's daughter, Nina McConigley, is the award winning author of Cowboys and East Indians.
RITA WATSON
Dedicated Public Servant | Barrier Breaker | Community Advocate
Rita Watson has devoted over five decades to public service in Wyoming, primarily with the Department of Education. Starting her tenure in 1969, she has worked under eleven superintendents, becoming an integral part of the state's educational framework. Her journey from the segregated South to a pivotal role in Wyoming’s government exemplifies resilience and dedication. Beyond her professional achievements, Watson has been instrumental in organizing Cheyenne's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day March since 1982, fostering community and honoring civil rights.
MEGAN GRASSELL
Entrepreneur | Young Innovator | Empowerment Advocate
As a teenager, Megan Grassell noticed a gap in the market for age-appropriate, comfortable bras for young girls—so she created Yellowberry, a company that has since gained national recognition. Her bold initiative challenged the fashion industry and provided a body-positive alternative for young women. Through her work, she continues to inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs.
JENNIE GORDON
First Lady | Hunger Relief Champion | Community Advocate
As Wyoming’s First Lady, Jennie Gordon has turned her platform into a force for good through the Wyoming Hunger Initiative. Since its launch in 2019, the program has tackled food insecurity by supporting local food networks and providing meals to families in need. By working with Wyoming’s ranchers, farmers, and food banks, she has created a sustainable system to fight hunger across the state.
Celebrating Wyoming’s Women: Past, Present, and Future
From the heart of our bustling towns to the quiet stretches of open land, women are making a profound impact in every corner of our state. Whether it’s through their leadership in local businesses, their dedication in schools, or their involvement in community organizations, Wyoming women are shaping our future. From politics and medicine to entrepreneurship and cultural preservation, these women and so many more have shaped Wyoming’s past, present, and future. Their courage, determination, and vision continue to inspire generations. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate their stories and encourage others to learn more about the incredible contributions of Wyoming women.
SOURCES:
Ewig, C. (2020). Wyoming firsts: A celebration of women in the Equality State. Arcadia Publishing.
McConigley, N. (1994). Legislative contributions and diversity in Wyoming politics. Wyoming Historical Society.
National Museum of American History. (n.d.). Nellie Tayloe Ross: A political pioneer. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved from https://americanhistory.si.edu
Women in Wyoming. (n.d.). Rita Watson: A legacy of service. Retrieved from https://womenofwyoming.com
Wyoming State Archives. (n.d.). Lillian Heath: Wyoming’s first female physician. Retrieved from https://wyoarchives.state.wy.us
Wyoming State Historical Society. (n.d.). Verna Keays Keyes and the Wyoming state flag. Retrieved from https://wyshs.org