History of the OSU Women's Center

women's center building - benton annex

The Oregon State University Women's Center, established in 1973, offers learning experiences that help women transform themselves and society. Its educational programs reflect the diverse views of women from all walks of life.

The center provides advocacy, support, programs, resources and opportunities to translate concerns into action.

Since the early 1970s, universities throughout the U.S. have opened Centers to respond to inequities experienced by women both in-and outside the classroom.

A large body of research has clearly documented sex discrimination in educational institutions. Addressing issues of widespread violence against women, particularly acquaintance rape, is another reason women's centers exist on university campuses.

The Center has space for meetings, study, programs and discussion, with an approximate capacity of 60-70. It serves as a resource and information clearinghouse and offers advocacy, support, and other services to women and men, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

The Center is staffed by the Executive Director, a part-time graduate assistant, and a number of student coordinators, interns, and volunteers. Additionally, the work of the Women's Center is guided by an Advisory Committee comprised of students, faculty, staff, and community members. Please use the links to the left to learn more about our staff and Advisory Committee, as well as how to receive regular updates on Center programs and initiatives, to reserve our space for a class or meeting, or to ask a question via email.

Please come visit - we look forward to welcoming and serving you!