At a time in which the University of Michigan was "exclusively an intellectual male club of Regents, faculty, and students," Elizabeth "Lizzie" Farrand broke all those norms and made a mark on the University’s history, and not only because she was one of the first two women ever to work there.
women at U-M
The first woman hired to teach at U-M was Louisa Reed-Stowell, a brilliant botanist who fought tirelessly for women’s equality, especially in education. Despite her prestigious contributions in the field, in the classroom, and beyond, U-M would discriminate against her time and time again on promotions, salary, and recognition. Nevertheless, she persisted.
women at Michigan
The early 1970s were pivotal years for women’s equality at Michigan. Government pressure was mounting for U-M to give women a level playing field on campus, but the University’s all-male administration was slow to act. Papers at the Bentley reveal how a group of determined women demanded accountability and action.
women at Michigan
From advertising for low-level jobs with “Attention: Student Wives" headlines to academic advisors actively discouraging women to apply for Ph.D. programs, the University of Michigan, along with most other academic institutions, has a long history of gender-based discrimination.
women's equality