U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., spoke Friday evening at Monona Terrace amid an energetic and largely female audience of more than 2,200.
\We can't be all that we can be until all young boys and girls have the opportunity to pursue the dormant alternatives,"" Clinton said. ""There has never been a better time to be alive as a woman than in 21st century America.""
Clinton also addressed other big issues like healthcare, the deficit, Medicaid, the education system and the economy.
Her visit to Madison was made possible by the Wisconsin Women in Government Inc., founded in 1987 to support women who choose a career in government service. The Wisconsin Women in Government held its 18th annual celebration to award scholarships to women pursuing undergraduate and post-graduate study at any Wisconsin institution of higher education.
During her speech, Clinton discussed the history of women in government. She also pointed out that Wisconsin was the first state to ratify the 18th amendment, which granted women suffrage. Clinton focused on the history of women in government and the importance of female participation in public service.
Eve Galanter, president of Wisconsin Women in Government, said she worked hard to recruit the ""perfect fit"" for her organization's keynote speaker.
""I sent supportive letters, followed by phone calls and letters from people all around Wisconsin,"" Galanter said. ""I actually went to Washington to meet with her staff.""
Gov. Jim Doyle, U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Wis., U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, and U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee, all attended the dinner.
Doyle and his wife, Jessica, praised Clinton and Wisconsin Women in Government for hosting the event.
""This is a tremendous opportunity for women to follow their careers in public service,"" said the state's first lady. ""We actually have four undergraduate scholars and the Bonnie Reese Legislative Internship scholar.""
The Bonnie Reese scholarship recognizes Bonnie Reese, the role model for Wisconsin Women in Government. Before passing away in 1989, Reese epitomized the best of women in government by becoming the first woman to direct the National Conference of State Legislature's staff section.
""I've known Hillary for many years,"" Gov. Doyle said, ""and I just think she's an exceptionally smart and incredibly committed person.""
However, when asked on whether or not he thinks Clinton will run for president in 2008, Gov. Doyle replied, ""Well, you'll have to ask Hillary that.\
