STATEHOUSE NEWS

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COLUMBUS, Ohio — What kind of future becomes possible when every girl knows she belongs in Ohio’s story? Today, Ohio answered that question with the unveiling of the Ohio Women’s Monument, a historic new landmark on the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse honoring generations of women whose leadership, courage, and determination helped shape Ohio and the nation.

Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine joined artist Brenda Councill, state and civic leaders, community members, and supporters to celebrate the completion of the monument, marking the culmination of years of vision, collaboration, and philanthropy.

“We hope the Ohio Women’s Monument inspires and encourages Ohioans, especially young girls and women, to realize that they have the power to be the ones who makes a real difference in their communities,” said First Lady DeWine. “Every generation has the chance to shape what comes next.”

“This is a wonderful monument and tribute to Ohio’s remarkable women – past, current, and future – who are and will be such an important part of Ohio’s story,” said Gov. DeWine.

The unveiling ceremony kicked off at the Ohio Theatre and featured music, a commissioned poem, and remarks from state and community leaders who shared their own personal stories. Speakers included:

• Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine


• Ohio Secretary of State and veteran Frank LaRose


• Senator Rob McColley, President of the Ohio Senate


• Representative Matt Huffman, Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives


• Jeananne Chadsey, Senior Advisor of Strategic Initiatives, Office of the Ohio Secretary of State


• Senator Nickie Antonio, Minority Leader of the Ohio Senate


• Representative Dani Isaacsohn, Minority Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives


• Stephanie Kunze, Former Ohio State Senator and Co-Chair of the Ohio Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission


• Charley Moses, Chair of the Capitol Square Foundation and Vice Chair of the Ohio Arts Council


• Holly Brians Ragusa, Poet and President of the Ohio Poetry Association


• Brenda Councill, Artist


• Betty Montgomery, Ohio’s first female Attorney General and Auditor of State


• Dr. Lori Stewart Gonzalez, President of Ohio University


• Marlena K. Boyce, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Sherwin Williams


• Donna S. Collins, Executive Director of the Ohio Arts Council
  

Hundreds of visitors attending the formal program at the Ohio Theatre then moved to the South Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse to watch history in the making. A host of individuals joined Governor and Mrs. DeWine as the monument was unveiled.

Nationally recognized sculptor Brenda Councill designed the monument, which features four etched granite columns and nine bronze figures representing women across generations, eras, and experiences. Visitors can walk among the granite columns and read inspiring quotes and the names of notable Ohio women. Three columns feature bronze figures, while the fourth intentionally remains open as a space representing the women of the future and the stories yet to be written.

“This monument was created to be experienced, not simply observed,” Councill said. “As people from all over visit this site, I want people to really feel what these women represent and be reminded that there are more accomplishments to be had in Ohio’s future.”

Councill spent more than a year in Zanesville, Ohio, bringing the monument to life, from clay modeling and 3D printing to bronze casting and finishing.

The Ohio Women’s Monument is the result of more than six years of planning and collaboration among Ohio legislators and leaders, the Ohio Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission, the Capitol Square Foundation, the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board and the Ohio Arts Council. The project grew from an effort to commemorate the history of women’s suffrage in Ohio and has evolved into a monument honoring women’s leadership, contributions, and ongoing pursuit of equality.

“Ohio has always been home to women who challenged expectations, opened doors, and made their communities stronger,” said Charley Moses, chair of the Capitol Square Foundation. “The Ohio Women’s Monument ensures those contributions will have a permanent place at the heart of our state government and gives future generations a place to see what is possible when they choose to lead.”

The monument was supported by America 250-Ohio as they commemorated the 250th anniversary of the United States throughout 2026.

The Ohio Women’s Monument is located on the South Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse and is open to the public. The monument joins a wide variety of other historic statues, monuments and markers across Capitol Square’s grounds. Plan your visit at OhioStatehouse.org. For more information about contributing to the monument, visit the Capitol Square Foundation website.