100 Women We Love: Class of 2009

Once again, we celebrate our favorite out and proud women. As difficult as it is to narrow it down to just 100, this year’s eclectic list includes artists, athletes, club promoters, community organizers, entertainers, entrepreneurs, filmmakers, politicians and plaintiffs, who are making a difference in our world and the world at large.

Nicole Dean

Don’t make the mistake of underestimating Nicole Dean. At 4’11-1/2” and 112 lbs, she’s certainly not what you would ever expect to see in a boxing ring. But this dynamo is the reigning 2009 Golden Gloves boxing champion in her weight class. Dean took up martial arts at an early age and stepped into the squared circle for the first time in 2007, joining a women’s boxing team and competing first in the 106 lb class, then moving up this year, all the way to the Golden Gloves finals at Madison Square Garden. “I was faced with lights, crowds of people, media and most of all a very tough opponent,” she said, “Winning a 5-0 decision and taking home the gold reminds me everyday I can do anything as long as I set my mind to it.” -KW

Remember, these are in no particular order because we love them all!


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