The American Association of University Women (AAUW) empowers women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Our nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has more than 165,000 members and supporters across the United States, as well as 1,000 local branches and 800 college and university partners. Since AAUW’s founding in 1881, our members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political.
Supports women’s rights to health care, including all aspects of reproductive health care.
Enhances the cultural life of our members and the community.
Supports education for women through AAUW Funds, the largest source of fellowships for graduate women in the United States, and through our local branch’s Dr. Lynn Cavazos Fellowship.
Encourages local young women to consider STEM careers by sending them to Tech Trek, AAUW’s summer science and math camp for junior high girls.
Provides our members with opportunities for fun, fellowship, friendship, and personal growth.
The Goleta Valley Branch of AAUW dates from spring of 1970 when thirteen women who had been AAUW members in other branches recognized the need to form an AAUW branch to serve the rapidly growing Goleta Valley. Calling a meeting to explore the how, why, and what of organizing an AAUW branch, the enthusiastic response from area women confirmed their feeling. Goleta Valley Branch began its first year with 75 charter members.
In its first 11 years, the Branch grew to about 140 members offering them a program consistent with the purpose and aims of AAUW. A program that gives each member the opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy.
During the first decade the Branch received a Community Research and Projects grant from AAUW Education Foundation to establish Postpartum Education for Parents (PEP). A readers theater called Women of All Ages was produced by its members and performed throughout the community. The script was sold as a fundraiser.
A list of program areas of interest in 1981 included: Money Talks, taking Hold of Technology and Day Care Issues. In the mid-decade the issues of Advocacy Networks, Women’s Work/Women’s Worth, Public Support for Public Education and Peace and National Security were being studied. A Community Research and Projects grant from AAUW Education Foundation was awarded to form Community Action for Quality Childcare. A game called Murder in Academia was developed, designed, produced and sold as a fundraiser.
The 1990 study topics were: Choices for tomorrow’s women, Pro-Choice, Educational Equity. In 1999, response to declining membership, a new Steering Committee structure replaced a formal Board of Directors.
The new millennium ushered in discussions with the Santa Barbara branch about merging both memberships. 2010 – 2011 was the charter year for the newly formed Santa Barbara – Goleta Valley Branch of AAUW.
