Valerie Steele is the director and chief curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she has personally organized more than 20 exhibitions since 1997, including, for example, Gothic: Dark Glamour, Daphne Guinness and A Queer History of Fashion.

Did you always know that you wanted to work in the fashion industry?

No, I did not. I wanted to be an actress and a writer. I ended up writing books about fashion, and, as my son once kindly told me, “Mom, you’ve been on TV more times than most actresses.”

What in your life has brought or given you the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment?

Work and Love—working with my colleagues at The Museum at FIT and loving my family and friends.

Women’s roles in society have changed dramatically over the past several decades. How have these changes had a personal impact on you?

My mother went to Harvard Business School, but then she got married and stayed home with her kids. I think she would have been a lot happier working. I was back at work a week after my son was born.

What future goals do you have for yourself?

I have several ideas for exhibitions and books that I hope to do over the next few years, and I’m trying to improve my French.

Editor’s Note:  In celebration of Women’s History Month, we spoke to several women who have spearheaded their way into the Fashion Industry.  Follow us through our series that highlights the accomplishments and words of wisdom that all of the women had to share.