American Association of University Women, Muncie Branch records

The origins of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) date back to November 28, 1881, when Marion Talbot and Ellen H. Richards called a meeting in Boston, Massachusetts to discuss the formation of an organization in which female college graduates could join together to provide opportunities for other women in higher education and find wider use for their own training. A year later, the Association of Collegiate Alumnae (ACA) was formally organized to unite alumnae of different institutions in “practical education work.” In 1921 the AAUW was formed through a merger of the ACA and the Southern Association of College Women with its national headquarters located in Washington, D.C. While continuing its efforts to further the opportunities of women in higher education and the job market, the AAUW has expanded its focus into other areas, including reproductive rights, voting rights, and disarmament.

The Muncie Branch of the AAUW was first organized on January 16, 1925 with its first meeting held at the Muncie Chamber of Commerce. Seventy-two women are listed as founding members including Anna D. Stephens, the first president, and Elizabeth Ball, the first secretary. The Muncie Branch has played an active role in the Muncie community through a variety of programs and activities, including the awarding of local scholarships and sponsorship of the White River Beautification Project.