On May 15, 2025, Winona State University partnered with the Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) to host the Women of Wellness (WOW) HERstory event.
The MMAM venue served as a vibrant gathering space for professionals seeking inspiration, reflection, and creative connection. The HERstory event brought together personal storytelling, artistic expression, and meaningful conversation to celebrate the power of people’s lived experiences.
Attendees were invited to explore how art and storytelling can serve as tools for healing, self-expression, and legacy. The event opened with warm welcomes and a sense of shared purpose, setting the tone for an afternoon that many described as “empowering,” “soul-nourishing,” and “deeply moving.”
Goldsmith and jewelry designer Liz Bucheit led participants through “Jewels in Your Crown: Women as Legacy Bearers,” a heartfelt workshop exploring how jewelry can serve as a tangible link to memory, resilience, and identity.
Through her practice of “jewelry journaling,” Liz guided attendees to reflect on the stories behind their most cherished pieces—uncovering meaning and personal power along the way.
Liz commented, “Jewelry is a personal connection to the past and present moments in women’s lives. It tells a rich and wonderful story about the wearer, with each jewel acting as a time capsule of history and family legacy, celebrating significant life events and memories.”
Opera singer and arts advocate Amanda Blue shared her powerful life journey through music and creative expression.
In her talk, “The Healing Power of Music and Art,” Amanda illustrated how art can help us process life’s challenges, reconnect with our bodies, and build community.
Her vulnerability and strength left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Amanda shared, “It was such an honor to have been able to speak to and be in the presence of such amazing people. I was greatly inspired by all of the stories shared in the room.”
The afternoon continued with a tour of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum’s stunning collection, offering participants a chance to experience the calming and uplifting effects of visual art in a serene riverside setting. The event concluded with delicious hors d’oeuvres and warm conversation on the MMAM patio—an opportunity for reflection, connection, and celebration of community.
What brings us joy, provides memories, and has personal meaning is so very important to our physical being and mental health. We each have a story to tell: they intertwine to make even more elaborate, connected stories.
As women, we should treasure our stories, gifts and talents—not hide them away, but share them for the benefit of our families, communities and the world!
HERstory 2025 reminded us that when women gather to share their stories, something powerful happens. We discover not only strength in ourselves but also connection in each other.
WOW HERstory was made possible by sponsorships from Winona Health, Coulee Region Women Magazine, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Well-Being Index, Merchants Bank, Sister Circle, Commonweal Theatre Company, Trust Point, SHE Leads, and Blooming Grounds Coffee House.
