This study investigated the lives of six women mathematicians to describe the factors and experiences that led each woman to become successful in mathematics. Because "voice" was used as a metaphor in this study, emphasis was placed on listening to and interpreting the participants' voices. The study used narrative inquiry to investigate the women's personal background, self identity, relationships, professional development and career, and the role that gender plays in their lives. Findings suggest that these women were encouraged in mathematics by parents and teachers. Data suggest that the women held strong views of themselves, though there was some evidence that several of the women felt insecure and inadequate. There was evidence that the women's lives were composed of many different components and did not solely revolve around their careers. The women identified reasons for becoming mathematicians, which included their love for mathematics and strong parental and teacher support. The women also perceived gender as playing three different roles in their lives, which were positive, negative, and neutral. They also provided insights into why women are not in mathematics and made recommendations on ways to support girls in mathematics. (Contains 34 references; interview guide is appended.) (Author/BT)