The Association of Northwestern University Women was founded in 1988 by a group of women in senior administration committed to enhancing the career development of women at Northwestern. The group's current interests include building networks for the exchange of information, fostering a sense of community, and serving as role models and mentors for other women. Members are entitled to make motions and vote on all issues and are eligible for elected or appointed positions.
Members pay nominal dues.
Less measurable, but equally important, is the informal networking and support that an association such as ANUW provides. All members of the Northwestern community are welcome to attend events. Brown Bag Lunches Noontime talks are held once a month on both the Evanston and Chicago campuses. Speakers present topics focusing on leadership, career and professional development, and other issues of importance to the Northwestern community. Usually these are afternoon events held in spring and summer at special sites.