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Did you know the Iowa State College of Liberal Arts and Sciences hosts more than just majors, minors, and academic and pre-professional programs? We have our own Study Abroad and Career Services centers! The LAS College houses the Center for the Study of Violence and the Center for American Intercultural Studies! By housing these centers for research and advocacy, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences opens up education opportunities for students, the community and the world!

Carrie Chapman Catt

One of these is the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics. Now you’re probably thinking “wait… Catt… like, Catt Hall?” That’s right! The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is housed in Catt Hall and the Carrie Chapman Catt Center is located on the 3rd floor! Carrie Chapman Catt graduated from Iowa State University in 1880 and was the only woman in her class. She was a leader in the fight for women’s rights to vote in the United States, writing and canvassing across the nation to rally support. The Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics follows in the footsteps of its namesake by working to educate and engage citizens in the political process!

Michelle Bernard

Each semester the center recognizes a Mary Louise Smith Chair to honor the only woman to chair the Republican National Committee. This coming Tuesday, March 31, the Spring 2015 honoree, Michelle Bernard, will speak in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union at 7:30 pm. Bernard is the founder of the Bernard Center for Women, Politics and Public Policy. Bernard frequently engages national media to discuss policy issues related to social justice for minorities and is the author of two books. Following her speech students and the public are welcome to ask her questions about her experiences and opinions.

Speakers like Michelle Bernard are just one more way for LAS students to learn outside the classroom. The Carrie Chapman Catt Center provides ISU students with unique opportunities to engage in the political process. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences hosts even more centers and institutes, check them out here!

See you on Tuesday!

Posted by: Sarah Curran