Distinguished Daughters Court of Honor
It has been convened every two years since 1998, when it debuted as a part of the Sesquicentennial celebration of the founding of the Philadelphia High School for Girls. The Court of Honor of the Distinguished Daughters is the schools’ and Alumnae Associations’ highest honor recognizing the accomplished alumnae. The Court of Honor recognizes:
- Distinguished contributions to their community, city, state, nation or global impact.
- Achievement of extended study or expertise in their chosen professions.
- Recognition in their chosen fields: intellectual or social causes, government, science, the arts, and other fields of endeavor.
- Serving as role models not only for the students and graduates of Girls’ High but for girls and women everywhere.
- Accomplishments that have extended opportunities for future generations of women.
We proudly acknowledge the awardees' illustrious contributions, which have left an indelible mark on our community, city, state, and nation. Their achievements span across diverse fields, including intellectual or social causes, government, science, the arts, and more. These Distinguished Daughters serve as beacons of inspiration for girls and women worldwide, transcending the boundaries of our school and alumnae. Their accomplishments have paved the way for future generations of women, opening doors to new opportunities.
Previous awardees include Gloria Bloom Allred (1959), renowned lawyer; Bebe Moore Campbell (1967), award-winning author; Judith Rodin (1962), President of the Rockefeller Foundation; the Honorable Shirley Clarke Franklin (1963), Jill Scott Grammy award winning recording artist, and Erika Alexander actress/activist. These women have not just achieved the highest recognition in their chosen fields but have also left their outstanding footprints on the world. Their achievements span the fields of intellectual and social causes, government, science, and the arts, inspiring us all.
As GHS Alumnae and supporters, we hold the keys that will open doors for future Girls’ High leaders, pioneers, healers, scientists, educators, humanitarians, and artists.
Prepare your nominations for the next nominations submission period, opening in February 2025.