Anna Lisa Vitale

“Legacy”

From: Avon, NY

About this piece: This piece highlights Miss Mary Phillips of Avon, who was the first African-American woman from Livingston County to enlist in the Women's Army Corps during WWII. After serving in a medical unit in the WAC, Mary continued in the medical profession, working as an LPN at the Rochester Psychiatric Hospital for a number of years. Her encouragement and influence led one daughter to serve in the Army for 18 years, and a son to join the Navy. Another daughter became an LPN. Mary also had the opportunity to represent her Rochester neighborhood at the historic march on Washington in 1963, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech.

Where they find inspiration: I am inspired by history, people, stories I feel should be heard. If I can give a voice to something special, I have every intention of doing so! I chose "Legacy" because of the world today. It's easy to get caught up in being on "a side", but I think it's important and easily forgotten to focus on your own heart and the stamp you leave for your loved ones to pick up on one day. The contributions to our country and, more specifically, our county that Mary Hedman has left are relevant today. Her story speaks to all walks and is testament to how capable we are to make a difference by choices we make for ourselves.