Women's Studies Program

Dates

• Existence: 1981

Biography

Abstract:

The Women's Studies program began in 1983-1984 with a minor. It now offers students interdisciplinary courses focusing on women's issues. Additionally, it hosts conferences and forums where faculty and students can present their work around these themes. Its mission statement as of 2011 follows: "Women's Studies is an interdisciplinary field focusing on women in diverse contexts, emphasizing the local and global interconnections across categories such as gender, race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality. Scholarship in Women's Studies analyzes the various historical and political circumstances, socioeconomic forces, and cultural representations that shape gendered lives." The Women's Studies program grew out of the Experimental College in the 1970s and shared many resources with the Women's Center. It officially offered a minor in 1983-1984. In 1985, they organized the first "Beyond the Classroom" forum for students to present their work. Initially there were two committees overseeing the program: the Curriculum Committee which developed the department's curriculum, and the Program Board which oversaw events and program development. Following an external review of the department in 1997, Women's Studies restructured. It consolidated the committees into one Faculty Committee with several sub-committees and was encouraged to break its structural ties with the Women's Center. Beginning in 1999, Women's Studies offered an interdisciplinary major. In 2005, they hosted the first International Women's Day to celebrate the achievements of women. Additionally, they host a yearly Research Colloquium Series that brings in speakers to talk on topics relating to women and gender.

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