Women's History Month in March is marked graphically in many classrooms by free posters that explore the contributions of Italian-American women.

A poster depicting women of Italian descent who have changed their lives through education showcases college presidents, biology and math professors, a professor of European literature, an actress, playwright and the chairwoman of a speech pathology department. These women are professionals working or retired at the state and city universities of New York, and some of the state's private colleges. Each has earned a Ph.D. and been presented with the Cornaro Award (for contribution to professions and communities) by the Commission for Social Justice of the Order of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.

A second new poster highlights four well-known women from across the U.S. whose lives inspire students. Meet TV newscaster Maria Bartiromo of CNBC, who hosts "The Wall Street Journal Report;" Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, a New York City native; and Lisa Scottoline, a lawyer and author who won the Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America. From this same poster, students can learn about Kathy Mazza Delosh, a captain with the New York Port Authority police who died on Sept. 11, 2001, in the World Trade Center after shooting out floor-to-ceiling glass walls with her service revolver, enabling hundreds to evacuate Tower 1 before it collapsed.

"We have established a positive image program and put out materials," said Stella Grillo, New York president for the commission. For details about free posters, contact Grillo at stelgri@aol.com, log on to www.nyscsjosia.org, or phone (516) 785-4623.