Center History
Directors
2019 to present: Sharon Bird
2018 to 2019: Kasi Jackson (Interim Director)
2016 to 2018: Cari Carpenter (Interim Director)
2013-2016: Jennifer Orlikoff
2009-2013: Ann Oberhauser
2008-2009: Janice Spleth (Interim Director)
1998-2007: Barbara Howe
1994-1998: Helen Bannan
1980-1992: Judith Gold Stitzel
Timeline
1980
The Women’s Studies Program is established in the College of Arts and Sciences. Judith Stitzel, professor of English, is the Program’s first coordinator.
1984
The Center for Women’s Studies is established in the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research. Judith Stitzel is named the Center’s first director.
1986
The first class of women’s studies certificate students graduates. Since that time, the number of students enrolled in women’s studies courses throughout WVU has grown to over 2,000.
1993
The Center for Women’s Studies becomes affiliated with the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences on July 1, 1993.
2003
A BA in women’s studies is offered. The first WVU women’s studies major, Jamie Lynn Baxter, graduates in December 2003.
2005
The Women’s Studies Program celebrates its silver anniversary, 25 years of feminist scholarship, research and service to the University.
Kasi Jackson becomes Women’s Studies first tenure-track faculty member.
2010
Celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of women’s studies at WVU kick off with a reception in January. A reunion and panel discussion in September brings together many past directors, faculty and staff to share their experiences.
2011
Brian Jara (2011-15) joins the faculty at the Center for Women’s Studies.
Kasi Jackson achieves tenure and promotion to associate professor.
2012
Approval is granted to change our name to the Center for Women’s and Gender Studies.
2013
The Center moves from Eiesland Hall to a temporary home at 325 Willey Street.
2014
The Center moves to its new home on the second floor of Knapp Hall.
2015
Cynthia Gorman has joint appointment in Women's and Gender Studies and Geography.
Niina Riivald becomes a full time teaching instructor.
Teresa Pershing joins Women's and Gender Studies as a lecturer.
A reception to mark 35 years of women's studies at WVU is held in October.
2016
Women’s Centennial Time Capsule, buried in 1991, is re-opened.
The LGBTQ+ Center is opened in Hodges Hall, consisting of offices for Director Cris Mayo, Program Coordinator Jorge Castillo and Administrative Assistant Christine Jacobs as well as a conference room and lounge area with a small computer lab to be a resource for students.
The Women’s Centennial Time Capsule is reburied in November containing additional artifacts to be opened again in 25 years.