Commission for Women hosts event honoring Mary Brickell

The Miami-Dade County Commission for Women, in partnership with K&L Gates, hosted an event honoring Mary Brickell — a true pioneer in Miami’s founding and one of only three women statewide inducted into the 2025 Florida Women’s Hall of Fame.

This event marked a historic moment for Miami-Dade County. Commission for Women leadership proudly nominated Mary Brickell for this honor, and the evening brought together community leaders, historians, and members of Mary Brickell’s family, including her great-great-granddaughter, Kimberly Frank, to celebrate her enduring legacy. The program included the official proclamation of October 29th as “Mary Brickell Day” across Miami-Dade County, presented on behalf of Vice Chairman Kionne L. McGhee, by members of the Miami Dade County Commission for Women, as well as remarks from several local leaders. The event underscored the significance of honoring women’s stories and preserving Miami’s rich history through truth and recognition.

Special thanks to the attending Commission for Women Board members: Chairwoman Michelle Abreu, Josephine Novo, Mercedes Carlson, Yvette Ayala, and Katherine Leiva. Chairwoman Michelle Abreu, former Director Nina C. Roque-Strickroot, and Dr. Rose Martin were each named in the newest book on Mary Brickell’s legacy, Orange Blossom 2.0: 2nd Edition.

Miami-Dade County provides equal access and opportunity in its programs, services, employment, and activities and does not discriminate based on disability. For more information or to request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, CART services, and/or any accommodation to participate in any County-sponsored program or meeting, please email Dr. Rose Martin or call 305-375-4967. Follow the board on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The Office of Community Advocacy, operating under the Board of County Commissioners, oversees 12 advisory boards, including the Commission for Women, as well as the Goodwill Ambassadors Program. The Office is committed to fostering a unified and inclusive community in Miami-Dade County. Stay updated by subscribing to our YouTube channel and following @AdvocacyMDC on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

From left to right: Marya Meyer, Katherine Leiva, Mercedes Carlson, Yvette Ayala, Susan Brickell, Rose Martin, Kimberly Brickell Frank, Lori Day, Michelle Abreu, Josephine Novo