University of Kansas Women's Hall of Fame

The Hall of Fame winners are exemplary KU alumnae, faculty and staff women who, through their significant contributions and achievements, overall impact and outstanding character, serve as role models for students as career women and community leaders.

Are you aware that KU has links to the former president of Avon and the inventor of adult education? Or that the first woman banker and one of the first woman Athletic Directors both found their beginnings here? The University of Kansas has a rich legacy of phenomenal women, many of whom have been inducted into the KU Women's Hall of Fame. Sponsored by the Emily Taylor Center for Women & Gender Equity and the Commission on the Status of Women, the Hall of Fame has been annually inducting women since 1970.

The 188 individuals composing the Women's Hall of Fame are exemplary members of our society in both overall impact and outstanding character. Many inductees accomplished feats in their respective fields at times when it was practically unheard of for a female to make such progress. The influence of their numerous contributions and achievements is immeasurable, and these women serve as awe-inspiring role models for all of us.

We would like to thank our partners for their generous contributions to the KU Women's Hall of Fame. This project would not be possible without you!

List of Donors

Kala Stroup, a Hall of Fame honoree, had the vision for the KU Women's Hall of Fame showcase. She wanted to capture the stories of these amazing women for future generations.

Now this wonderful history will not remain hidden. Enjoy learning about these amazing women on this website, or you can visit our interactive display located on the 5th floor of the Kansas Union at the Lawrence campus. Enjoy browsing or searching by the year of induction or the honoree's name. You may even choose to search by career or major fields, and possibly tap into these amazing resources by our e-mentoring service. Perhaps you may even want to nominate another remarkable woman for this award with our downloadable form.

Welcome to exploring! Prepare to be INSPIRED.

Note: If using the kiosk in the Kansas Union, some links may not be activated.


The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression and genetic information in the University’s programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director of the Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access, IOA@ku.edu, 1246 W. Campus Road, Room 153A, Lawrence, KS, 66045, (785)864-6414, 711 TTY.