College of Saint Mary celebrates National Women’s Colleges and Universities Day

OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM), one of the only women’s colleges in the Midwest, celebrated National Women’s Colleges and Universities Day on March 5.

Former CSM President Maryanne Stevens discussed the impact of women’s colleges and shared personal stories from her time as president of the college. She encouraged the audience of students, staff and faculty to value and trust their voices to create positive change.

“We need to honor the women who have gone before us. From the suffragettes to Mother Teresa, those are people who said, ‘No, let’s change society so that more voices are heard and affirmed,’” Stevens said. “We need one another to create a world where even the weakest can stand. This is what true caring and what true interdependence is. I believe that’s what women’s colleges can help the world with.”

Stevens said women’s colleges play an important role in creating a compassionate society where everyone can thrive.  

“Women’s colleges allow us to be bathed in an environment of caring and support,” she said.

The celebration included an opportunity to learn about notable CSM women who helped build the College into what it is today. Students also shared what they appreciate about attending a women’s college and posed for photos at a CSM photo station.

National Women’s Colleges and Universities Day was created by the Women’s College Coalition (WCC) to recognize the role that women’s colleges and universities have played in creating unique educational opportunities that empower women.

American women’s colleges were founded more than 250 years ago as women faced many barriers to education. These institutions created access and opportunity that allowed women to create independence and pursue their dreams.

College of Saint Mary was founded in Omaha over 100 years ago to empower women to lead with purpose, compassion and impact. CSM continues to prepare women to lead bold and purposeful lives.