Inspiring Women Transforming the Geospatial Community

International Women’s Day offers an opportunity to spotlight the women whose work continues to redefine the geospatial profession. Across education, research, government, libraries, nonprofit initiatives, and technology leadership, these professionals are strengthening geography, advancing GIS innovation, and opening doors for future generations.

The GeoInspirations and Geoinspirations Podcast Series highlight individuals who have expanded the reach of spatial thinking and geotechnology. Their stories collectively reflect how geography and GIS intersect with education, public service, environmental stewardship, scientific research, and community empowerment.

Advancing Spatial Thinking and Geographic Education

Dr. Sarah Bednarz has championed the development of “spatial habits of mind,” emphasizing how geographic reasoning can improve decision-making and civic understanding. Patricia Carbajales-Dale has promoted the idea of “GIS for Good,” demonstrating how spatial tools can serve communities and support meaningful change.

Letisha and Garet Couch illustrate the power of collaboration in sustaining GIS programs through teamwork and shared leadership. Dr. Maria Luisa de Lázaro y Torres co-founded Atlas Digital Escolar, expanding access to geographic learning and strengthening distance education initiatives.

Susan DeMar has served as a role model and advocate within her department, while Dorothy Drummond embodies lifelong learning and global exploration as an educator who continues to travel and teach. Jasmine Du contributes to the development of next-generation geospatial tools, ensuring that emerging technologies remain accessible and impactful.

Dr. Aikaterini Klonari has worked to revitalize geography education in Greece, highlighting both the historical roots of the discipline and the urgency of modern renewal. Erika Klose has pushed the boundaries of science and education by integrating technology into academic practice, while Michelle LeBlanc bridges libraries and communities through geospatial literacy initiatives.

Jenna Leveille’s journey demonstrates how geography can create new professional horizons. Judy Mraz has promoted geographic education throughout the Southern Hemisphere and beyond, reinforcing global collaboration in teaching and research.

Anita Palmer and Denise Powell have reimagined higher education through GIS, challenging institutions to evolve and embrace new models of learning. Beth Tulanowski has worked from the university library to reduce barriers to GIS access, supporting interdisciplinary discovery.

Leadership, Innovation, and Community Impact

Lesley-Ann Dupigny-Giroux has extended geography into atmospheric science, literally elevating the discipline into the skies. Michelle Ellington emphasizes operational efficiency, showing how geospatial systems can streamline organizational performance.

Ann Fritz has demonstrated the value of interdisciplinary partnerships, strengthening collaboration in the field and across subject areas. Sona Guliyeva describes a geospatial career that continually opens new horizons, while Dr. Paulette Hasier has preserved and curated generations of cartographic knowledge.

Peggy McKillip’s environmental work focuses on conservation—changing the world one tree at a time. René Pretorius encourages professionals not to settle for adequacy but to pursue excellence in mapping and spatial analysis. Eva Reid advocates for both community empowerment and women’s advancement within the geospatial sector.

Breece Robertson contributes to protected lands management, applying spatial analysis to environmental stewardship. Kendis Scharenbroich has blazed a trail as a GIS president and CEO, exemplifying executive leadership in the industry.

Lauri Sohl advances smart city initiatives while maintaining strong community engagement. Stacey Stark focuses on shaping the future through education and mentorship. Diana Ter-Ghazaryan integrates humanistic perspectives with cartographic practice, weaving together cultural understanding and spatial representation.

Madison Vorva amplifies voices for environmental and social change. Ashok and Ishu Wadwani combine data, technology, and education in a shared mission. Shannon White applies spatial thinking to adventurous and dynamic career paths. Amy Work connects communities, geotechnology, and environmental awareness in ways that foster sustainable development.

A Collective Legacy in GIS and Geography

Together, these leaders demonstrate that the geospatial profession thrives on diversity of thought, discipline, and experience. Their work spans classroom instruction, academic research, nonprofit advocacy, executive leadership, environmental conservation, smart city planning, cartographic preservation, and technological innovation.

International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress in GIS, geography education, and spatial technology is inseparable from the contributions of women who challenge conventions, mentor emerging professionals, and expand the boundaries of what mapping can achieve.

Following their stories is more than celebration—it is an invitation to recognize how geospatial knowledge shapes a better world.