Nonprofit Category Finalist of 2009 Leadership Award
Iowa Women's Archives
Statewide
Nominated by Linda Schreiber
Established in 1992, the Iowa Women’s Archives is named for its founders, two prominent Des Moines women who conceived the idea of a repository that would collect information solely about Iowa women. Louise Noun was an art collector, historian, social activist, and philanthropist. Mary Louise Smith was a Republican Party activist and the first woman to chair the Republican National Committee, serving from 1974 to 1977.
In 1991, Louise Noun auctioned her personal art collection to permanently endow the archives. The Iowa Women's Archives is supported by that initial gift and by the generosity of donors who continue to contribute to the archives fund.
The Iowa Women’s Archive nourishes creative research, learning and teaching by providing collections and a separate space dedicated to the women of Iowa and their history. The Archives fulfills its mission by collecting and making available primary sources about the history of Iowa women from all walks of life. IWA staff also undertakes a robust outreach program to gather and preserve the history of groups underrepresented in archives.
Through its programs and online resources, the Iowa Women's Archives serves a broad audience ranging from students and scholars to the general public.
The Iowa Women's Archives’ project, "Giving Voice to Their Memories: Oral Histories of African-American Women in Iowa," is a part of IWA's effort to document the lives and experiences of African-American women with Iowa connections.
Another IWA project preserves the stories and accomplishments of the state's rural and farm women.
It’s clear the Iowa Women’s Archives’ intent, purpose and mission documenting the lives of Iowa women is worthy of a 50% Solution Award recognition.