The Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGS) Program at Gettysburg College provides opportunities for research and informed activism.
The WGS curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, multiple global perspectives, and the diversity of human experiences through analysis of:
The WGS Program includes courses--both interdisciplinary and in a variety of disciplines such as history, literature, anthropology, sociology, economics, and media studies--that are informed by such perspectives as feminist, queer, and critical race theories. In addition to developing theoretical analyses, students participate in hands-on experiences that involve them in activism. Empowered to use what they learn, students become engaged citizens.
Fall of 1888: Gettysburg College admits its first woman student
January 1972: First "women's studies" course, Women in Literature, is taught by Professor Mary Margaret Stewart
1970s - 1980s: Multiple offerings on women and gender issues; many more women join faculty
1986: Women's Studies Program is established by faculty vote
1989: Minor in Women's Studies is created
1990: Karen Rigney and Myra Spiegel, Gettysburg College's first Women's Studies minors, graduate
1994: Major in Women's Studies is established by faculty vote
1995: Kristen Becker, Gettysburg College's first Women's Studies major, graduates
2009: Women's Studies evolves into Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies