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Deans of Women

In the last half of the nineteenth century, when women were accepted as students into colleges and universities across our country, the prevailing notion of women was that they were in need of special protection and guidance in this male domain. The origin of the office of Dean of Women was an attempt by administrators to meet this perceived need. In almost every coeducational institution in the United States there was an official whose chief duty was "the care and supervision of women students." The position varied from that of a chaperon, to an administrative officer on par in importance and dignity with deans of the various colleges in the institution, to a gracious and charming woman who "loves girls."

These positions often lacked definition and direction. The newly appointed deans of women were largely left to develop their own programs under the supervision of the presidents of their institutions.

The positions of the dean of women emerged into a definite administrative, academic, and social office. Many new deans were faculty members. Her work required tact as well as wide knowledge of university policies and problems. Her social duties were limited only by her strength and the hours in a day.

From the early beginnings of Utah Agricultural College to Utah State University status, between 1922 and 1980, there were ten women who became dean of women. While each woman brought her own unique skills, training, and visions of a woman's place in higher education, the commonality they all shared was as a mother figure.

Many factors contributed to the phasing out of the title of Dean of Women on college campuses. Campus unrest at Berkeley and other universities, reevaluation of regulations governing students, interpretation of Title IX and affirmative action, and a push for equality between the sexes all contributed to the perception that the role of a Dean of Women was outmoded and archaic. It was no longer necessary to have some "in loco parentis."

Phasing out of the position of the Dean of Women at many institutions occurred primarily through title changes, not necessarily changes in job responsibilities. Some Deans became Dean of Students or were appointed Vice Presidents within Student Services. But for 58 years at Utah State University, ten women served as Dean of Women and played an important role in campus life. Their achievements and contributions were many.

A 60 minute video documentary, "In Loco Parentis - A Herstory of Deans of Women at Utah State University," is available at the USU Women's Center, Taggart Student Center Room 310. Call 797-1728 for information.

Sketches of Deans

1922 - 1930

Charlotte Dancy, the first Dean of Women, joins the faculty of the Utah Agricultural College in 1920. She teaches two courses: Home Health and Nursing, and Mothercraft, Child Welfare. She establishes the Associated Women Students (AWS).

1930 - 1935

Caroline Hendricks graduated from Utah Agricultural College with bachelor and master of science degrees. She joins the faculty in 1928, and is appointed Dean of Women in 1930. Mrs. Hendricks believes that 'the typical woman of today must possess a combination of characteristics that has not been found in any other women in past history.' She must be charming, graceful, and beautiful - a feminine woman with strength, integrity, initiative, courage to face life's problems, and willingness to be a responsible member of society.

1935 - 1941

Lenore Lewis Williams believes ideal college women are cultivated and disciplined in mind, superb in physique, gracious and courteous - these are the qualities towards which the dean directs all her work. She is remembered as being a woman who got on well with the girls and made them feel she was one of them.

1941 - 1944

Caroline Hendricks is reappointed Dean of Women. She asks the president for sabbatical leave during 1944-45 for the purpose of doing work in 'the field of college guidance and personnel work as it relates to the work of dean of women.'

1944

Fern Starr is acting dean of women 'giving good common sense advice and making clever contributions to parties. She won the respect and love of Aggie women as a lovely, gracious friend as dean.'

1945 - 1952

Ione Bennion Daniel majored in speech with a minor in English and did graduate work at Stanford and Washington universities. She is energetic with long blond braided hair and a charming smile. She believes college students are adults, capable of using their intelligence to develop the attributes of graceful living. Ione promotes the future of education and woman's place of responsibility in society.

1952 - 1953

Leah Farr, like former deans, is concerned with student activities. She believes freshman women should live in college housing whenever they can.

1954 - 1957

Mae Welling serves as Dean of Women. Her philosophy with students was always "You're wonderful, and you prove yourself otherwise." Her annual report to the President in 1956 includes nine areas of administrative duties, five areas in which she is faculty advisor, and six committee responsibilities. In addition to maintaining an interest in the welfare of women students, and scheduling college and campus activities, she supervises the group living aspect of Student Housing.

1957 - 1959

Hazel Johnson does not have the title of dean of women and is appointed as Women's Advisor. She is a counselor in the division of student services, and her appointment completes the reorganization of the division. Her principal duties will be as advisor to the Associated Women Students' Association, the Panhellenic Council, and in group counseling at the women's residence halls.

1959 - 1966

Leah Dunford comes to Utah State as a counselor for women, but the title reverts, and she is referred to as dean of women in 1960. Her responsibilities are primarily to look after the needs of the women students. There were many regulations regarding women students which were what the parents at that time wanted. She initiates Mother's Weekend. Reflecting on her years as dean, she hopes that she is remembered for her love of students, that she loved what she was doing, and that is was a great time in her life.

1966 - 1980

Helen Lundstrom is already serving as head of the Department of Business Education and Office Administration when she is appointed Dean of Women. By 1974, Dean Lundstrom admits that her role has changed considerably during the last eight years. Now the position is designed to help women reach their full potential rather than to serve as a substitute for parental guidance. Her title is changed to Assistant Vice President for Special Projects. She explains that recent legislation has required a swing away from titles and organizations that don't include all students - both men and women. Dean Lundstrom's tenure lasts through years of tremendous societal change. She is remembered with great affection. She died of cancer at the age of 58 in 1980.