The Leatherby Libraries proudly celebrates Women’s History Month by spotlighting the literary achievements of Chapman alumnae authors through our “Championing Voices” reference desk display. This curated collection encompasses a diverse array of genres, from scholarly works to children’s literature, showcasing the breadth of talent among our Chapman University alumnae.

In collaboration with the Department of Student Engagement, which presents a display in Argyros Forum, we’re excited to announce a series of visual poster exhibits highlighting a selection of books from our bibliography. These posters are in the hallway near AF03.

“Championing Voices” Poster Display by the Department of Student Engagement located in Argyros Forum

At the reference desk, visitors will discover a selection of non-fiction titles authored by Chapman Alumnae, each delving into various industries and topics. For instance, Ella Parlor ’11 graduated with a degree in Communication and a minor in Political Science and Gender Studies. In her book High Tolerance, Parlor delves into alcohol marketing and how companies create a narrative to entice consumers. She details her professional rise through the industry, leaving her eager to help others evaluate their personal and professional impacts (Source: EllaYourBella.com). Similar to Parlor’s enthusiasm for helping others, other alumnae authors highlighted in this bibliography utilize their skill in writing to elevate others. 

Leah Thomas ’17 graduated with a degree in Environmental Science & Policy and a cluster in Comparative World Religions. As the author of The Intersectional Environmentalist: How To Dismantle Systems of Oppression To Protect People and Planet, Thomas “uses her passion for writing and creativity to explore and advocate for the critical yet often overlooked relationship between social justice and environmentalism” (Source: LeahThomas.com). In her book, Thomas emphasizes socioeconomic linkages to environmental disadvantages that cause Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to experience significant adverse effects of climate change. She encourages readers to create sustainable and inclusive changes to better the environment for all. In addition to non-fiction works, our display and bibliography also include works of fiction written by Chapman alumnae.

Elizabeth Klehfoth grew up in Elkhart, Indiana, and received her BFA in creative writing from Chapman University in 2010. Her first novel, All These Beautiful Strangers, is about a young woman haunted by her family tragedy and is “an exceptional debut novel, deftly crafted and written with style” (Source: ElizabethKlehfoth.com). Another coming-of-age novel in this selection is The Midnights by Sarah Nicole Semanta, who received her BFA in Creative Writing from Chapman University in 2009. It explores the story of a young woman who uses her love of music to help her find herself after losing her father. 

For those interested in exploring further, the complete bibliography for this display is available here in the Chapman University Digital Commons.

This display was curated by Leatherby Libraries student employees Arianna Tillman ’25, Isabella Piechota ’25, and Kalea Brown ’26.

The Leatherby Libraries’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts align with the Chapman University Strategic Plan for Diversity & Inclusion, fostering a diverse and inclusive campus climate.