Olivet College, like the wider world, has not yet achieved full gender equity for women and so support programs like the Women's Center are needed to help Olivet become a more equitable, welcoming place for women. Everyone benefits when all students, faculty and staff feel valued and are allowed to contribute to their fullest extent.

The Women's Center helps Olivet College be a better place for everyone by supporting and creating a sense of community for women, educating the campus about equity and climate issues and the contributions of women, and advocating for women's full access to and participation in the institution.

2. What is gender equity?

Gender equity in an educational setting means an equal chance at learning for females and males, with open options to learn subjects and prepare for future education, jobs and careers without expectations based on gender. Equal encouragement for all to develop, achieve and learn is essential equitable treatment and is required by law. Gender equity principles also apply in the workplace and affect staff and faculty.

3. What does the Women's Center do?

The Women's Center's mission is to empower women for the benefit of all. We serve faculty, staff, students and community members by providing space, resources and programs--space for meetings, studying, reading and relaxing; resources like books, journals, and videos; and programs like Tea @ 3, book discussions, and annual events like the Women’s Conference and the Take Back the Night march.

4. What's the difference between the Women's Center and Women's Studies Program?

The Women's Center and Women's Studies Program have distinct, yet complementary, missions. Women's Studies is an academic program offering a minor in Women’s Studies. The Women's Center is a support program for students, faculty and staff. Both programs provide learning opportunities and support and advocacy for women, bring women together to build community, and place women at the center of inquiry and action. Both programs have a long history of working together to transform the curriculum, the campus environment and society at large.