Michele Mathews Leber will be inducted into the Appleton West Hall of Fame on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The following is what the Hall of Fame committee, in collaboration with her husband, has chosen to display in her honor.

Nationally recognized leader in the movement to end wage discrimination based on gender and race -- to ensure that all workers receive equal pay for equal work. Her commitment, leadership skills and wisdom fostered national impact of public awareness of the need for economic justice for women and minorities, and a resulting national norm, including establishing Equal Pay Day.

As chairperson of the National Committee on Pay Equity for 17 years, representing the American Library Association, she served her profession with distinction, recognized in 2014 by Women of the World as one of 11 people most critical to the equal pay movement. 

An exemplary librarian and nationally recognized book reviewer, she capped her professional work as manager of multiple branches of Fairfax County Virginia Libraries. Starting as a reporter for the Post-Crescent, after graduating from Northwestern University, she moved to libraries earning a Masters in Library Science from the University of Washington, Seattle, WA. She served as secretary of the Women's National Book Association governing board and for many years managing its "best books" list.

Throughout her life in varying roles, "Mike" gave meaning to the nurturing years of her youth in multiple ways. Known as a trailblazer, she is remembered with great affection by peers and beneficiaries for her kindness, tenacity and commitment to a more just society.