The Southern Association for Women Historians (SAWH) recently hosted its largest conference since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, welcoming over 150 scholars, students, and historians to Bethune-Cookman University from June 19-22. This significant event marked a milestone as it was the first triennial gathering held at a historically Black college or university (HBCU).
The timing of the conference was particularly meaningful, coinciding with the celebration of what would have been the 150th birthday of Mary McLeod Bethune, the university’s founder. The event commenced on Juneteenth, a date symbolically rich for an organization dedicated to Southern women’s history. “This is hallowed ground, where history is not only preserved but lived, breathed, and taught every day,” remarked Michelle Haberland, president of the SAWH, during the opening address. “Being gathered here on the campus founded by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune is both a profound privilege and a powerful reminder of our mission.”
Conference Highlights
The conference featured a variety of presentations, including the screening of the documentary “Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter,” which was followed by a discussion with historian Jessica Brannon-Wranosky, Ph.D. Additionally, notable talks were delivered by Noliwe Rooks from Brown University and Dr. Wesley Hogan from Duke University, who discussed the implications of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision on reproductive healthcare.
Dr. Crystal deGregory, the director of the Mary McLeod Bethune Institute for the Study of Women and Girls, highlighted the significance of Bethune-Cookman University as a host venue for the 2025 SAWH triennial, emphasizing its historical weight. “No place else could hold the weight of this moment. Commemorating the 150th birthday of Mary McLeod Bethune in the institution she founded is only fitting,” she stated.
A Historic Recognition
In an unprecedented move, the SAWH awarded its first Honorary Lifetime Membership to Dr. deGregory, recognizing her pivotal role in organizing the conference. “None of this exceptional and historic convening would have been possible without the extraordinary talent, vision, and hard work of Dr. deGregory,” said Haberland, acknowledging her contributions.
Networking and Collaboration
The event also provided a platform for both established and emerging scholars, including renowned historians such as Glenda Gilmore and Judith Jennings, who have made significant contributions to women’s, Southern, and African American history.
Attendees enjoyed exclusive tours of Bethune’s renovated home, set to reopen to the public in the coming month, while also exploring the cultural offerings of Daytona Beach by engaging with local businesses. This collaboration of academia and community enriched the overall experience.
Support and Sponsors
The SAWH, founded in 1970, promotes research on women’s and gender history in the American South and welcomes individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. This year’s conference was sponsored by Bethune-Cookman University and the Mary McLeod Bethune Institute for the Study of Women and Girls. Special acknowledgment was given to the university for providing complimentary housing to attendees and to the program committee, co-chaired by Françoise Hamlin and Robin Morris, for their efforts in organizing this landmark event.
