Since the late 1960s, UW System women’s and gender studies scholars have increased the representation and understanding of women, their histories, and their contributions.

The UW Women’s and Gender Studies Consortium works to ensure the continued development of women’s, gender, and LGBTQ studies across the state.

Eloise Gerry was the first woman scientist to work with the U.S. Forest Service.

Julia Grace Wales was a peace activist and professor whose ideas helped lay the foundation for international peace organizations like the United Nations.

Grace Wahba was the first woman to join the faculty of the Department of Statistics at UW–Madison, and she created a formula that was vital for more accurate satellite data collection.

Judy Greenspan is a lifelong activist, known for being one of the first out lesbian political candidates in the United States.

Velma Bell Hamilton was the first Black teacher hired in Dane County and the first president of the Madison Chapter of the NAACP.

Mary Eastwood was a founding member of the National Organization for Women (NOW) and a leader in feminist legal scholarship.

Alma Baron was a pioneer of early children’s live television, a professor at the University of Wisconsin, and an advocate for women in business.

For decades, Elizabeth Hawkes was the only practicing woman attorney in northern Wisconsin, and she was the first woman president of the Wisconsin State Colleges Board.