Mattel Receives Corporate Changemaker Award by the National Women’s History Museum at 2025 Women Making History Awards Gala

On March 20, 2025, the National Women’s History Museum (NWHM) hosted their annual Women Making History Awards Gala at The Anthem in Washington D.C., celebrating a group of extraordinary, trailblazing women who have made profound contributions to society. Mattel has announced it was honored to receive the first-ever Evelyn Y. Davis Corporate Changemaker Award, recognizing the societal impact of initiatives like the Barbie Dream Gap Project, and how the company’s brands like Barbie, Monster High, and American Girl allow all to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential.

On behalf of Mattel, Lisa McKnight accepted the recognition at the Women Making History Awards Gala, which as part of their Women’s History Month celebrations highlighted the contributions of women past and present.

During the acceptance ceremony, McKnight spoke on Mattel’s 80-year journey to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Touching upon Mattel’s history, Ruth Handler’s creation of Barbie, the Barbie Dream Gap Project, and the Barbie film, McKnight told the story of how Barbie helped transform women’s place in society. 

 “From Ruth Handler changing the world with an 11-and-a-half-inch doll to initiatives like the Barbie Dream Gap Project, we are committed to helping ensure the next generation of women stands on the shoulders of giants, not in their shadows,” said Lisa McKnight, EVP and Chief Brand Officer