Several SFU students traveled to Harrisburg last weekend to attend the American Association of University Women’s annual Pennsylvania conference.
AAUW is a nationwide network of more than 170,000 members, supporters, branches and institutional partners.
The students had the opportunity to attend a presentation by Gisele Barreto Fetterman at the conference. She is the wife of current Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Gisele Fetterman is an activist, nonprofit executive and volunteer firefighter. She is the founder of a non-profit organization named Freestore 15104. The non-profit’s primary objectives are to fight poverty and improve relationships through empowerment.
She is also the co-founder of two other non-profits: For Good PGH and 412 Food Rescue.
“I find myself in rooms with people who believe they are important,” said Fetterman. “It does not phase me because I think the families that I serve in Braddock and the people in fires are important.
“I show respect for everyone.”
Fetterman told those in attendance at the conference that she believes traveling is an important educational experience.
“I love learning about cultures. I want to go everywhere and see and meet everyone. I think we learn more about ourselves as we travel.”
SFU senior Emily Bucher found Fetterman’s presentation inspiring.
“Gisele’s presentation was my favorite part of the conference,” said Bucher. “She separated herself from her husband – she is more than just a politician’s wife.
“She’s an activist.”
One student asked Fetterman if she had any advice for the women in attendance at the conference.
“Take up space and put your real voice into the world,” said Fetterman. “The more that people tell their stories, the more other people will feel empowered to tell theirs.
“That’s how we connect.”
Gisele and John Fetterman have three children.
