AAUW Grosse Pointe Branch
Celebrating 80 years of Advancing Equity for Women and Girls
The Grosse Pointe Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) was established in 1944. A group of dedicated women, led by Mrs. John Pear, founded this branch with the goal of uniting college and university women in the Grosse Pointe communities. Their mission was to improve educational standards, secure broader opportunities for women, advocate for proper legislation on local and national issues, and cooperate with the broader aims of the AAUW.
In the early days, the branch hosted guest speakers who addressed topics related to their mission. They also sent supplies to veterans and communities in war-torn areas of Europe and Asia, and supported local community efforts.
One of their first fundraising activities was a Book Sale, which was so successful that it became an annual event. The proceeds helped cover branch expenses and allowed the group to donate to both local and international causes, as well as support initiatives led by the national organization.
Over the years, the AAUW Grosse Pointe Branch has provided fellowship, programs, and opportunities to advance equity for women and girls in society. Their fundraising efforts have supported national endowments and scholarships, as well as local scholarships for women at Wayne State University, Alternatives for Girls, and Macomb Community College.
The branch partners with and supports community events that align with their mission. They are a member of the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce and a registered U.S. public charitable 501(c)(3) organization.
To make a more profound impact, the branch has focused on supporting and encouraging careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEM) & (STEAM). They have provided financial stability to expand robotics teams, award scholarships to graduating high school girls, and host an annual art contest and exhibition.
The AAUW Grosse Pointe Branch is always looking for ways to put their mission into action and has many ideas on how to encourage and support careers in STEM & STEAM. They are proud to have been advancing equity for women and girls for the past 80 years.
Donations to the AAUW Grosse Pointe Education Program are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
“We give women the confidence to live life fully.”