AAUW (American Association of University Women) advances equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.
Albany Branch
One of the oldest branches in Oregon, the Albany Branch was chartered on December 10, 1932, and has been continuously active since then. We currently have 23 members with the majority from Albany and a few from surrounding areas. Contact Membership Chair Sue Stein for information about joining. Take a look at our Facebook page too!
The AAUW Story
AAUW’s story began in 1881, when a small group of female college graduates banded together to open the doors for women’s career advancement and to encourage more women to pursue higher education.
The history of the American Association of University Women mirrors the progress of women in the United States. As the number of women graduating from college grew, so did our membership.
We’ve published hundreds of research reports, from an 1885 paper disproving a prevailing myth that college impairs a woman’s fertility to, most recently, a study documenting the economic impact of workplace sexual harassment. We have supported the academic achievements of many thousands of scholars, from scientist Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, to astronaut Judith Resnik, the second woman in travel in space.
Our advocacy efforts have propelled countless new laws, including the Equal Pay Act, first proposed in 1945 and finally passed in 1963; the Title IX amendment in 1972; the Family and Medical Leave Act in 1993; the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009; and the Paycheck Fairness Act, which was passed by the U.S. Representatives in 2019 but is awaiting action in the Senate.
We’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. In many ways, the fight for gender equity is just getting started. Visit our National organization to learn more.
Who We Are
AAUW is a community standing strong for gender equity. It is a nationwide network of more than 170,000 members and donors (almost 1000 in Oregon alone), 1,000 branches, and 800 college/university institution partners.
Since 1891 AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political. Our commitment to our mission is reflected in all aspects of our work.
AAUW has one of the largest scholarship programs for women in the world, having awarded, since inception, over $135 million to over 13,000 women and nonprofit organizations around the world. The recipients pursue academic work and lead innovative community projects to empower women and girls.
AAUW of Oregon
Oregon Mission: AAUW of Oregon promotes advocacy, takes action to empower women and girls, and connects National AAUW with branch members.
Value Promise: By joining AAUW, you belong to a community that breaks through educational and economic barriers so that all women have a fair chance.
Vision Statement: AAUW empowers all women and girls to reach their highest potential.
Diversity: In principle and in practice, AAUW values and seeks an inclusive organization, leadership team and board of directors where all people are seen, heard and respected. We welcome diversity and strive to build a caring and equitable community.
Your membership makes our powerful voice even louder on critical issues affecting women and girls. Join us!