Two women pioneers in historical research and writing, Zora Neale Hurston and Frances Cabaniss Roberts, will be inducted into the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame March 7.

According to the AWHOF guidelines, a nominee must have been deceased for two years before consideration for inclusion. Hurston died Jan. 28, 1960, and Roberts died Nov. 5, 2000. Both Hurston and Roberts made significant contributions in their fields, dedicating their lives to literature and historical research and preservation, respectively.

Hurston’s writings, all in print today, are now taught in English and African American Studies departments across the country. She wrote four novels, two books of folklore, an autobiography, numerous short stories and several essays, articles and plays. Her best-known work is the novel, “Their Eyes were Watching God.”

Roberts dedicated most of her life to historical research. She authored textbooks used in history and civics classes throughout Alabama. Roberts was also an activist for the preservation and continued use of historical buildings.

The induction ceremony is open to the public, and will be at 10:30 a.m. March 7 in Alumnae Auditorium on the Judson campus.