2024 Day of Giving

 

Triota Honor Society Induction, Spring 2023

Help us advance gender justice at SCU!

The Santa Clara Women’s and Gender Studies Department is making a critical difference in the lives of Santa Clara students. The concepts and frameworks we utilize in the interdisciplinary field of WGST are as vital as ever and our faculty and curriculum continue to grow to meet the expanding interests of our incredible students. 

This year we are approaching 20 majors and 30 minors. Given rising interest in specialized training this year we are working to propose new minors and major concentrations in areas like LGBTQ+/Sexuality Studies, Intersectionality Studies, and Gender, Law, and Advocacy Studies. We are also continuing to increase our internship and experiential learning opportunities for students. These experiences are transformative for students in terms of linking their passion for gender studies with careers and pathways to graduate study. 

WGST faculty and faculty affiliates have taken on significant leadership roles in the work of the University-wide LGBTQ+ Working Group which is undertaking major institutional interventions in areas like campus climate, inclusive housing, curriculum expansion, research, and more. 

We are small but mighty and your valuable support at any level makes a huge difference to our students. Please contribute on this Day of Giving so we can continue to expand these activities and programs, and continue to create important change at SCU.

Thank you,

Sharmila Lodhia
Chair and Associate Professor, Women’s and Gender Studies Department

“I am incredibly grateful to be a part of the Women's and Gender Studies department here at Santa Clara University. This department has not only provided me with an exceptional education but also a supportive community and memories that will last a lifetime. The WGST department has fostered in me a passion for social justice and activism, and I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I've acquired as a WGST major to create positive social change in our world.” — Grace Yonkers-Talz, Class of 2024 

“I’m so proud to belong to the WGST community. Each course opens my eyes to the nuances of feminism which are all around us. I can’t help but bring up discussions from my WGST courses into my political science, philosophy, and even French classes. A huge part of what makes WGST courses so impactful is the inspiring professors who teach them. My favorite professors belong to the WGST department, and I’m so thankful to learn from them, be mentored by them, and try to embody their fierce intellect and unapologetic empathy. I also have a fond place for my fellow students—I learn so much from their experiences, courage, and creativity. They push me to think more critically and consider perspectives I didn’t even know existed. I’m immensely grateful to the WGST department for challenging me academically, connecting me to career opportunities, and offering a safe space to learn and grow.”  — Emma Samaniego, Class of 2024