Welcome From the Director

Greetings!

It’s hard to believe it, but another school year has begun, and this one promises to be busy from the get-go.  On October 5th and 6th, my colleague Liz Cannon and I are hosting the 36th annual Wisconsin Women’s Studies Conference and 7th annual UW System LGBTQ Conference in Reeve Union.  Early bird registration is open until September 20!  Highlights of the conference include a performance by Staceyann Chin on Friday night, and an amazing exhibit in Steinhilber Gallery that provides commentary on reproductive rights issues.

But backing up for a moment, plans are underway for an Open House for Women’s Studies students and faculty on September 25th starting at 4:30 p.m.  We’ll convene in the Interdisciplinary Studies offices on the 3rd floor of Sage Hall for refreshments and conversation.  Information will be available about the Women’s Studies minor and major, upcoming course offerings, internship opportunities, and ways to get involved with the Women’s Advocacy Council.  Please plan to join us as we kick off the start of a new school year!

We are offering a couple of exciting new courses this fall.  Dr. Jodi Eichler-Levine has developed a course called “Judaism, Gender, and the Environment,” which has enrolled students not only from Women’s Studies and Religious Studies, but Environmental Studies and Social Justice as well!  Dr. Susan Rensing is teaching “History of Sexuality in the U.S.” for the first time this fall, a course that is cross-listed with History.  We hope that both courses will become regular offerings.

Best wishes for a productive and not too hectic school year!  I hope to see many of you in the weeks to come.

Best,

Christie