Lecture on “The History and Evolution of Catholic Women’s Colleges” Oct. 19

Caldwell, N.J., Sept. 8, 2021 – “The History and Evolution of Catholic Women’s Colleges in the U.S.” is the topic of a free lecture at Caldwell University 3 p.m,. Tuesday, Oct. 19.  Attendees can attend in person or virtually. The talk is one of a series of events to celebrate the installation of Dr. Matthew Whelan as Caldwell’s ninth president.

Marie Mullaney, Ph.D., professor of history at Caldwell and a specialist in women’s history, will present the talk, which will detail the historical reasons why Catholic women’s colleges were first founded in the late nineteenth century.  Highlighting the role played by women religious in opening the doors of higher education to decades of young women, she will outline the challenges these colleges faced over the decades,  celebrate what they have contributed to American life, and look at the legacy of the institutions that  have survived, grown, and emerged from these earlier traditions.  

Mullaney, who also teaches New Jersey history, will provide historical background on both national and state institutions including Caldwell University, which was founded by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell in 1939.

She will challenge her audience to appreciate how the ideals which inspired the birth of these colleges are still relevant today, values which are needed in a world where “young people are searching for truth, authentic relationships, and caring mentors and role models who can show them that their lives have meaning and purpose.”

The presentation will be held in the Westervelt Lecture Hall on campus.  Those who would like to join online may contact Jill Sheldon at jsheldon@caldwell.edu | 973.618.3242 for the link. 

To find out more about inauguration activities, go to https://www.caldwell.edu/inauguration2021/.