Introduction

Thirty years after its founding, in 1867, Indiana Asbury University, under President Thomas Bowman’s leadership, embarked on a brave new path—the admission of coeds. There were five women admitted, four hailed from Putnam County. However, only four became official graduates in 1871. They were Alice Allen, Laura Beswick, Bettie McReynolds Locke, and Mary E. Simmons. Considering the challenges faced by these women, one understands their courage and strength. By 1882, Asbury welcomed its first female faculty member appointed to a full professorship, Alma Holman. In 15 years, the University made great strides with respect to women, during a time when women still lacked suffrage. As one reviews University history, there are many examples where equity, access, and inclusion demonstrate a wide-ranging commitment to diversity.

In 2002, 135 years after the first coeds arrived in Greencastle, the University took another bold step—an assessment of the status of women. Today, women comprise 57% of student enrollment. As for faculty, women comprise 40% of faculty members and almost 60% of staff.  While the numbers are impressive and demonstrate a long-standing effort by the University to recognize and promote women, the Task Force on Women and Families moves the institution firmly into the 21st century by comprehensively exploring the charge from President Brian Casey:

  • To review the practices (for faculty, administrators, staff, and students with regard to the campus and surrounding environment, career development, classroom climate, and employment status and compensation of women) employed at DePauw University since 2002;
  • To learn from best practices on the status of women and a family-friendly atmosphere employed by other post-secondary institutions;
  • To identify and outline issues which need to be addressed as the University endeavors to provide a healthy and supportive climate for women in all aspects of University life;
  • To recommend revisions to policies and structural changes to offices and organizations related to the status of women and of the University as a family-friendly work environment.

In order to accomplish this task we will seek input from current students, faculty, and staff members. If you are an alumnus, Greencastle community member, or former employee, please contact a task force member directly. All are encouraged to use anonymous reporting, as appropriate. The Task Force on Women and Families invites your participation in this effort to add to DePauw University’s excellence.

You can contact any member of the Task Force.