Patricia Schroeder has spent a lifetime defying stereotypes. Graduating from Harvard Law School in 1964, she was one of only 15 women in a class of more than 500 men. After winning Colorado's first congressional district seat in 1972, Schroeder began a courageous 24-year odyssey through some of our nation's most tumultuous times. During her tenure, Schroeder served on numerous pivotal committees, and made history as the first woman on the House Armed Service Committee. Schroeder chaired the House Select Committee on Children, Youth, and Families, where she helped enact both the Family Medical Leave Act and the National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act.

Ms. Schroeder is now president and chief executive officer of the Association of America Publishers and is the author of two books: Champion of the Great American Family and 24 Years of House Work... and the Place is Still a Mess.

Return to International ATHENA Award