American Association of University Women

American Association of University Women. The American Association of University Women is a prominent nonprofit organization founded in 1881 that advances gender equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. With a nationwide network of members and branches, it is one of the largest organizations dedicated to the educational and economic advancement of women in the United States. Its work is grounded in a long history of supporting women in higher education and promoting systemic change in areas such as pay equity and Title IX.

History

The organization was founded in 1881 by a group of female graduates, including Marion Talbot and Ellen Swallow Richards, who sought to unite alumnae of different institutions to open doors for other women in academia. Initially named the Association of Collegiate Alumnae, it merged with the Southern Association of College Women in 1921 to form the present-day organization. A pivotal early achievement was its 1885 research report debunking the then-prevalent notion that higher education impaired women's health, a study that influenced institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Throughout the 20th century, it was instrumental in advocating for landmark legislation, including the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the passage of Title IX in 1972.

Mission and activities

The core mission is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. Key activities include commissioning influential research reports such as "The Simple Truth about the Gender Pay Gap" and providing educational resources to combat bias in fields like STEM. The organization operates a nationwide network of local branches that engage in community programming, often in partnership with institutions like the American Library Association and local school districts. It also conducts leadership development programs, such as the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders, to prepare the next generation for roles in public policy and corporate leadership.

Fellowships and grants

A cornerstone of its work is a comprehensive fellowship and grant program that has provided over $135 million to more than 13,000 women and nonbinary individuals. These awards support scholars at critical stages, from postdoctoral research fellows to women pursuing graduate degrees in fields where they are underrepresented. Notable programs include the American Fellowships for doctoral and postdoctoral work, the International Fellowships for non-U.S. citizens, and the Career Development Grants for those holding a bachelor's degree. Recipients have gone on to win honors such as the Pulitzer Prize, the MacArthur Fellowship, and the Nobel Prize.

Advocacy and public policy

The organization maintains a strong presence in Washington, D.C., advocating for federal and state policies that promote economic security and educational equity. Its public policy priorities include strengthening enforcement of the Equal Pay Act, protecting and expanding Title IX, supporting family and medical leave policies, and ensuring access to affordable higher education. It mobilizes its membership through initiatives like the annual AAUW Action Fund and lobbies directly before bodies like the United States Congress and the Supreme Court of the United States. It has also filed amicus briefs in significant cases, including those related to Lilly Ledbetter and sexual harassment in educational settings.

Structure and governance

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors elected by its membership, which includes a national president and representatives from across the country. It operates through a federated structure comprising state organizations and hundreds of local branches, allowing for coordinated action at the community, state, and national levels. The national headquarters in Washington, D.C. houses its research, public policy, and fellowship operations. Affiliated entities include the AAUW Fund, which supports its educational work, and the AAUW Action Fund, a separate 501(c)(4) organization focused on legislative advocacy and voter education.

Notable members and leaders

Throughout its history, the organization has counted many influential American women among its leaders and members. Early presidents included notable reformers like M. Carey Thomas, the president of Bryn Mawr College. Prominent members have included Eleanor Roosevelt, who was an active member, Sandra Day O'Connor, the first female Supreme Court Justice, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a longtime supporter. Other distinguished figures associated with the organization include scientist Marie Curie, who was awarded an honorary membership, author Pearl S. Buck, and Congresswoman Patsy Mink, a co-author of Title IX.