The Mansfield University President's Commission on the Status of Women began in 88-89. We work together to educate the campus community in the area of women's issues.
Our Mission: To advocate on behalf of women and to keep the President advised of women's issues related to Mansfield University.
History:
The Commission was originally formed in 1988-89 under the auspices of the late Dr. Sandra Linck, who served as Associate Provost at that time. A group of women from campus gathered at a planning meeting and once given the charge, they began to formulate a draft of a mission statement, goals and by-laws. The main mission is to be “a highly visible and credible resource that promotes and researches education of and communication between campus constituencies in the area of women’s issues.” We also “keep the President informed of women’s issues on the Mansfield University campus.”
The Commission or PSCW, as it is known today, is given a budget line through the President’s Office which enables them to sponsor, promote and support many different campus initiatives centered on the needs of women. Past programs included the following:
- New Employee Reception
- Self-Defense Courses
- SHARP (Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention) training
- Open discussion pertaining to campus concerns
- Women’s health afternoon
- Guest speakers
With the assistance of the Pennsylvania Women’s consortium, two female undergraduate students are sponsored by the Commission and University to attend an annual Leadership Institute each summer. Each participant is required to do a campus-wide presentation during the next academic year. This project is identified at the conference and financial support is given by the Consortium. In addition, the Commission also supports the Leadership Institutes for Faculty and Staff (planned on alternate years) through campus announcements and small financial contributions (by request only) for campus projects.
Our annual funding will also serve, in part, as a possible funding source for student travel for women’s leadership opportunities. We will also consider requests from faculty/staff, if funds are available.
Probably the most recognized program is our annual Mentor Luncheon. Female students are encouraged to honor and show their appreciation to a member of the Mansfield University community who has influenced them to become a stronger women.
Student Spotlight
The President’s Commission on the Status of Women (PCSW) invites faculty, staff, and students to nominate an outstanding Mansfield University female student (undergraduate or graduate) to be celebrated in our Student Spotlight.
We are looking to feature female students who:
1) Promote women’s issues
2) Represent academic excellence
3) Demonstrate service and leadership to the university (campus organizations, committees, athletics, etc.).
Please nominate your outstanding female student by completing the Student Spolight Nomination Form. New Student Spotlights will be featured on the PCSW website each month.