April 2025

Our Branch program in February led nicely into Women’s History Month.  Chris Enss’ reminder of the importance of female actors in building the West inspired us to honor all those that came before. (If you missed the February meeting, a link is available to a recording in the description of the program on the web for February.)
AAUW was founded in 1881 by Marion Talbot, who became the Dean of the College of Women at the University of Chicago, and Ellen Swallow Richards, the first woman to earn degree in chemistry.  It was one of the first organized efforts to advance opportunities for women to pursue higher education and careers — and for equal treatment with men.  In one early action, in 1885 the organization published a report disproving a prevailing myth that college impairs a woman’s fertility.  At that point, around 15% of bachelor’s degrees were earned by women. Today women do earn more than half of all degrees, both undergraduate and graduate.  However, while we celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of women, we also need to look forward and take action to maintain past progress. 

The April program [originally scheduled for March but cancelled due to weather] asks us to consider, “Where do we go from here?”  Our answer to that question will ensure that the work of past generations is built upon for the benefit of all.