28 Feb 2011 Inspiration in a red shoe

by Sonja J. Keith

Inspiration can come from the simplest of objects. For Greenbrier High School Principal Susan Jackson and senior Jordan Hannink, it came in a red high heel shoe.

Two years ago, Mrs. Jackson pointed to a painting of a red shoe in her office and shared with Jordan a story from a conference. “Heel marks over the backs of others is not the way to climb the ladder of success,” she said, explaining what the shoe represents. “You have to help each other up.”

The painting was created by Julie Martin. “She did it for me when I told her the story,” said Mrs. Jackson. “That conference was 20 years ago, but the story still holds true. It is a powerful message.”

Inspired by the story, Jordan drafted a charter to create The Red Heel Coalition to promote gender equality and raise awareness about women’s issues.

In its first year, members promoted health issues, including breast and ovarian cancer awareness. In its second year, the group has undertaken community service projects.

The coalition’s most recent project is raising awareness and money for “The Girl Effect,” which helps young women in developing countries. (For more information, visit www.girleffect.org.) Members hope to raise $2,500 through sponsorships and T-shirt sales.

A special assembly and a school-wide viewing of “The Girl Effect” video are planned in conjunction with the project. Mrs. Jackson hopes to raise awareness about the injustices women face in other countries. “I think we have no idea what they suffer,” she said. “I applaud Jordan, her sensitivity to others and her willingness to work on their behalf.”

After graduation, Jordan plans to attend college and pursue international civil service.

“I really look forward to seeing what she accomplishes for herself and the women she will serve. I bet she’ll be helping women she’s raising money for today,” said Mrs. Jackson. “Jordan is one of those students who will not be forgotten when she graduates.”