About WGSS Programming

WGSS is committed to sponsoring quality programming that aligns with our mission and values. Throughout each academic year, we aim to bring forth opportunities for Elon鈥檚 students, faculty, and staff to engage in conversations about gender and sexualities. The community can expect to see a regular slate of programming from WGSS, which may also work in partnership with campus organizations, offices, and programs with shared interests.

In a given year, you can expect:

  • Events (fall and spring) to bring together existing and prospective minors
  • Faculty/staff working group for those interested and engaged in WGSS-related scholarship
  • An event to highlight WGSS-related campus scholarship
  • An event supported by the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Lecture
  • End of year banquet to celebrate our program and graduating minors

Plus one or more of the following:

  • A prominent film/documentary screening
  • A regional, national, or international speaker
  • An event highlighting timely issues 鈥渋n the news鈥

Program & Event Co-Sponsorship

WGSS is also open to co-sponsoring events or programs initiated and led by other campus departments, programs, offices, and/or organizations. If you would like to suggest such partnership, we invite you to .

Current Programming

Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Lecture

Lauren Dunne Astley attended Elon鈥檚 spring 2011 orientation and was to have been a member of Elon鈥檚 Class of 2015. In July 2011, Lauren was murdered by her former boyfriend, who was sentenced to life in prison for his crime. Lauren鈥檚 name stands for the 3-4 women who are killed by their partners every day in the United States.

Learn More

Schirmer Family Endowment

The Schirmer Endowment comes from the family of Liza Schirmer Rubenoff 鈥06. This endowment supports 久久热 and specifically the Women鈥檚/Gender Studies program. Established by Dr. Bruce D. and Geri E.聽Schirmer聽in honor of their daughter, Liza ’06, this聽endowment funds events co-sponsored by WGSS and the GLC.