Robert O’Leary, a professor of Social Sciences at Massachusetts Maritime Academy , a top-ranked state university with seven undergraduate degree programs focusing on science, engineering, technology, math, and business that blend academics and experiential learning, was a guest speaker at the recent Cape Women’s Coalition International Women’s Day celebration.

The March 3rd virtual event featured the presentation, “Voter Eligibility and Access: An Historical Perspective and Our Current Issues,” during which O’Leary and writer and activist Joyce Hackett addressed the history of women’s voting eligibility and present voting matters.

O’Leary has served various roles in local government in the past, representing the Cape & Islands in the Massachusetts State Senate from 2000 to 2010 and serving as a Barnstable County Commissioner from 1986 to 2000.

“Dr. O’Leary’s participation at this important Cape Women’s Coalition event speaks to his knowledge and understanding of the issues and challenges women have and continue to face as leaders,” said Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, USMS, president of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

The Cape Women’s Coalition (CWC) is a non-partisan coalition of individuals and representatives of organizations and groups working together as an agent of change to encourage and support women to enter public life and become leaders through civic engagement.