Speaker Joanna McClinton Inspires Students During Women’s History Month

In recognition of Women’s History Month, Merion Mercy Academy welcomed Joanna McClinton, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, as the featured guest at MMA’s Community Reset in March. McClinton represents communities in West and Southwest Philadelphia as well as Yeadon and Darby in Delaware County and is the first woman to hold the position of Speaker in the legislature’s history.

McClinton has made history several times during her career in public service. In 2018, she became the first woman and first African American elected House Democratic Caucus Chair. In 2020, she was elected House Democratic Leader—the first woman to hold that role in the institution’s 244-year history. In 2023, she was elected Speaker of the Pennsylvania House, becoming the first woman to serve in that role in the nation’s oldest legislature.

A lifelong resident of Southwest Philadelphia, McClinton graduated from Grace Temple Christian Academy before earning degrees from La Salle University and Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. She began her career as an assistant public defender, serving for seven years before becoming chief counsel to State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams. In 2015, she was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Speaking to the Merion Mercy community, McClinton reflected on her unexpected path to public office. “I never expected to be in politics or to run for office,” she shared, noting how grateful she is for the opportunity to serve. She encouraged students to remain open to possibilities and to pursue opportunities they may never have imagined for themselves.

“You belong,” she reminded students, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another along the way. “You don’t get anywhere alone.” Just as previous generations of women helped pave the way, she said, today’s young women have the opportunity to help lift up those who will follow.

McClinton has received numerous honors for her leadership and public service, including recognition on City & State PA’s 40 Under 40 and Power of Diversity lists, the Barristers’ Association of Philadelphia’s Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year award, and selection to Politico Recast’s Power List. She was also named a NewDEAL Rising Leader in 2023.

Closing her remarks, McClinton offered students a final piece of advice: “Pursue your passions and interests. Discover your ‘why.’ If you don’t give up, opportunities will come your way.”

Her message resonated deeply with Merion Mercy students, reminding them that leadership often begins with courage, purpose, and a willingness to serve others. In a community committed to forming young women who lead with confidence, compassion, and a strong sense of justice, McClinton’s example offered a powerful reminder that Mercy graduates have the potential to make their own historic impact in the world.