About AAUW

Empowering women nationally since 1881, AAUW has been the nation’s leading voice in promoting education and equity for women and girls. The nationwide network is comprised of more than 150,000 members, as well as 1,000 local branches and 700 college and university partners. For the past 130 years, AAUW has researched and taken positions on fundamental issues of the day–economic, political, social and educational. Our commitment to AAUW’s mission is reflected in all aspects of our work.

Originally named the Central Florida Branch of AAUW, our branch was established in 1928 under the leadership of our first president, Mrs. Hyatt Edgars. Since 1928, the Orlando/Winter Park Branch has been actively promoting AAUW’s mission — to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

Today our Orlando/Winter Park Branch has over 200 members representing various colleges and universities throughout the country and from four continents.  Our branch offers women the opportunity to meet other professional women at our regular breakfast meetings, social gatherings and special interest groups.  Monthly meetings feature speakers discussing current events and women’s issues.  In addition, the interest groups include book clubs and groups that focus on Mah Jongg, exploring Central Florida, dining-in, dining out, theater, museums, foreign films, foreign affairs and current issues.

AAUW has a long and distinguished history of advancing education and professional opportunities for women in the United States and around the world. Each year AAUW provides millions of dollars in fellowships, grants, and awards for outstanding women around the globe and for community action projects. AAUW also funds pioneering research on women, girls, and education.

The AAUW LAF (Legal Advocacy Fund) works to combat sex discrimination in higher education and the workplace. LAF initiatives include community and campus outreach programs, a resource library and online advocacy tools, a Legal Referral Network, and various research reports. LAF also provides support to workplace sex discrimination cases that have the potential to make a difference for all women.