History
Our Story
CFUW was formed in 1919, many years before the modern women’s movement. In 1920, during CFUW’s inaugural year, there were 507 Canadian women graduates of Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees, and no doctorates. Although those numbers grew each year, there was no fast or substantial increase. In 1955, Canadian women received 3146 Bachelor’s degrees, 303 Master’s degrees, and 17 doctorates. (See Details).
CFUW Charlottetown received its charter on August 16, 1955. Doris Anderson was elected its first President. The purpose stated:
- To stimulate the interest of University women in public affairs, and to afford an opportunity for the expression of united opinion.
- To promote higher education of women.
- To further cooperation among women of different universities.
The purpose of the group was further refined in 1973:
- To assist in developing a sound concept of educational values and in maintaining high standards of their education by awarding a scholarship.
- To arouse and sustain among members an intellectual interest in public affairs in the political, social and cultural fields; to encourage an active participation in such affairs by qualified women.
- To guard and improve the economic, legal and professional status of Canadian women.
- To further cooperation among university women, nationally and internationally.
- To carry out these purposes, various programs and projects have been undertaken. Study on significant world affairs and local problems with guest speakers and panel discussions, studies of the status of women, education, library and creative arts, international relations; donations of books to school libraries, briefs to Government, City Council, Planning Boards, etc.
