MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (Azat TV) – Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is marking National Women’s History Month 2026 by re-highlighting a significant historical moment: the 1994 recognition of Deborah McDermott as the university’s first Woman of Achievement. This resurfaced story, originally published in the Sidelines student newspaper, underscores MTSU’s long-standing commitment to celebrating female leadership and achievements, bringing a pivotal past event into current focus for a new generation.
McDermott, who served as Vice President and General Manager of WKRN Channel 2, was honored on November 7, 1994, as part of a series sponsored by National Women’s History Month. Her selection highlighted a career marked by significant professional advancement, including roles as Director of Promotion and Relations for KOLN/KGIN TV in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Program Director of KMBC-TV in Kansas City. The re-publication of her story by Sidelines 100, a project showcasing a century of student journalism, serves as a contemporary anchor for the university’s ongoing celebration of women’s contributions.
Deborah McDermott’s Enduring Legacy for Women’s Month
In her 1994 address at MTSU, Deborah McDermott shared invaluable insights on navigating a predominantly male-dominated business world. She emphasized the critical role of mentorships in professional development, advocating for their power to attest to an individual’s character and commitment. McDermott also stressed the importance of relentless hard work and establishing an impeccable track record, stating, “It’s important to prove to people that you can do something.” Her advice, originally given over three decades ago, remains profoundly relevant for women aspiring to leadership roles today.
McDermott also spoke candidly about the pressures to succeed and the challenge of maintaining personal values amidst professional demands. She urged her audience to “Handle people the way you want to be dealt with. Don’t even lose the human side of it,” advocating for respect as a golden rule in professional interactions. Her perspective on balancing career ambitions with personal and family life, born from her own experience returning to work after childbirth, offered practical wisdom on accommodating both aspects within a woman’s life. She advised diplomacy combined with assertiveness, and the courage to seek new opportunities if unappreciated.
MTSU’s Ongoing Recognition of Women’s Achievements
MTSU’s Woman of Achievement series is specifically designed to recognize women across various fields—arts, letters, science, and commerce—who have attained national and regional excellence and serve as powerful role models. The university’s involvement in recognizing women’s achievements dates back to 1983, predating the national expansion of Women’s History Week to a full month in 1987. Deborah Gentry, then co-chair of National Women’s History Month, noted the desire to broaden the scope of activities beyond March, ensuring that achievements are highlighted throughout the year.
McDermott’s reflections on societal perceptions of women in leadership also resonate today. She acknowledged persistent issues with how women’s strength is perceived, noting that “People will say negative things about that strength, but women are as guilty of assaulting and stereotyping that strength as men.” Her ultimate passion for her work, she concluded, was derived from the ability to “make someone laugh or cry, create an emotion…when you can make a difference.”
The decision by MTSU to feature Deborah McDermott’s historic achievement during the 2026 Women’s History Month celebration serves as a powerful reminder that the fight for gender equality and recognition is an ongoing dialogue, bridging past struggles with present aspirations. It highlights the enduring relevance of foundational advice on leadership, resilience, and maintaining integrity in the pursuit of professional excellence for women.