50 Years of HerStory

USCGA Alumni Association
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Non-Profit

50 Years of HerStory is a limited-series podcast produced by the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association. Through personal stories and in-depth conversations, the series celebrates five decades of women at the Academy, reflecting on the trailblazers who led the way, the generations that followed, and the legacies still being written today.

Episodes

  1. Episode 1: The First to Arrive with CAPT Joanne McCaffrey '80

    Jul 1

    Episode 1: The First to Arrive with CAPT Joanne McCaffrey '80

    What does it look like to be part of history while it's still unfolding? In this inaugural episode of 50 Years of HerStory, Nicolle Bogden '12 sits down with CAPT Joanne McCaffrey '80, a member of the first class of women to attend the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Joanne reflects on what it meant to step into an institution not yet built for her, and how that experience shaped a distinguished career as a Coast Guard civil engineer. Joanne shares the moments that tested her, the relationships that sustained her, and the quiet, persistent ways meaningful change often begins, not through sweeping reform, but by asking a question, challenging a long-standing assumption, or simply believing things can be better for those who come next. Throughout the conversation, Joanne offers reflections on resilience, belonging, and what it means to carry the weight of being "first." Her story is a powerful reminder that the legacy of progress is built one decision, one relationship, and one act of quiet courage at a time. Closing out the episode, CAPT Elizabeth Young '89, USCG (ret.), shares a special "Moment of Gratitude," a heartfelt shout-out to someone who made a lasting impact on her journey. It's a moving reminder that behind every success story are the people who believed in us first. Moment of Gratitude is a recurring segment featured at the end of every episode this season. Have someone you'd like to thank? We'd love to feature your shout-out too. Submit yours here. As we celebrate 50 years of women at the Coast Guard Academy, we invite you to stay connected, honor this legacy, and support future generations. Support this Podcast Stay connected by becoming a member of the USCGA Alumni Association at www.cgaalumni.org/1887Support the USCGA Alumni Association's 50th Anniversary initiatives: www.cgaalumni.org/herstory-giftPurchase the commemorative 50 Years scarf, with proceeds supporting the celebration: www.50yearscarf.com  Keywords Women in Leadership, Coast Guard Academy, USCGA Alumni, 50 Years of Women at USCGA, Trailblazers, Civil Engineering, Military Leadership, Resilience, Belonging, Legacy, Mentorship, Breaking Barriers, Female Pioneers, Service Before Self, Leadership Through Service

    1h 6m

  2. Mar 31

    Ep. 0 - Every Story Deserves to Be Told

    This episode explores the significance of the 50th anniversary of women at the USCGA, highlighting storytelling, in-person events, and the collaborative effort behind the commemorative project. Guests Andrea Marcille, President of the USCGA Alumni Association, and Tara King Clark, VP of Comms & Marketing, share insights on history, community engagement, and future initiatives. Keywords USCGA, women in the Coast Guard, alumni stories, 50th anniversary, storytelling, multimedia project, in-person events, community engagement Key Topics Significance of the 50th anniversary for USCGARole of storytelling in preserving historyIn-person engagement and regional eventsCollaborative efforts and sponsorships for the project Guests Andrea Marcille, President, USCGA Alumni Association Tara King Clark, VP of Comms & Marketing, USCGA Alumni Association Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Logistics 02:54 Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the Academy 05:53 The Importance of Storytelling 09:06 Creating Safe Spaces for Alumni 11:58 In-Person Engagement and Events 14:58 Inclusivity in Commemoration 18:08 Sponsorships and Community Involvement 21:13 The Role of the Podcast 23:58 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Resources USCGA Women 50th Anniversary Website - https://cgawomen50.org Colette Travel (French Riviera Trip) - https://colette-travel.com

    21 min

  3. Trailer

    Coming Soon - 50 Years of Courage & Counting

    Fifty years ago, women first walked through the gates of the United States Coast Guard Academy. They came with determination, with uncertainty, with courage. They stayed. Through thoughtful conversations, we're honoring the women who paved the way, reflecting on the journey of the last five decades, and celebrating the impact still unfolding today. Follow 50 years of HerStory and join us as we share these stories throughout the year. 50 years of courage and counting.

    2 min

Trailer

About

50 Years of HerStory is a limited-series podcast produced by the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association. Through personal stories and in-depth conversations, the series celebrates five decades of women at the Academy, reflecting on the trailblazers who led the way, the generations that followed, and the legacies still being written today.

Information

  • Creator
    USCGA Alumni Association
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 USCGA Alumni Association