Our National Heritage 

In March 1910, four visionary women in Washington, D.C.—Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Dr. Sara Brown, Dr. Nancy Fairfax Brown, and Miss Mary Cromwell—came together to organize the College Alumnae Club, laying the foundation for what would become the National Association of University Women. Their vision was to encourage professional excellence among women, advance civic engagement, and cultivate meaningful personal and intellectual fellowship. More than a century later, that vision remains a living legacy. Today, the NAUW Prince George’s County Branch proudly carries this heritage forward, honoring the women who established the foundation while continuing the work of education, service, leadership, and sisterhood for generations to come. 

1910 

The Beginning 

The College Alumnae Club was organized in Washington, D.C., in March 1910 by Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Dr. Sara Brown, Dr. Nancy Fairfax Brown, and Miss Mary Cromwell. Twenty university graduates joined, elected officers, and planned a program focused on professional excellence, civic engagement, and personal and intellectual fellowship among professional women. 

1923

A NATIONAL VISION

Representatives of newly organized branches met in Washington, D.C., on April 6–7, 1923, to consider the foundation of a national organization. This gathering marked an important step toward creating a unified organization for university educated women.

1924

A NATIONAL ORGANIZATION IS ESTABLISHED

At the April 25–26, 1924 conference, the permanent organization was established. In November of that year, the organization was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia. 

1974

A NEW NAME, A CONTINUING MISSION

On August 9, 1974, at the biennial convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Association accepted its updated Charter and became known as the National Association of University Women (NAUW). The Association from its inception is a service and educational organization. 

2022

A NEW CHAPTER IN NAUW HISTORY

On July 29, 2022, at the 73rd National Biennial Convention in Tallahassee, Florida, by a unanimous vote of Delegates, the Corporation accepted the District of Columbia Nonprofit Corporation Act and updated the Charter to become an International Organization.

TODAY

THE LEGACY CONTINUES

More than a century after its founding, the National Association of University Women continues its legacy of education, service, leadership, and advocacy. As an International Organization, NAUW remains committed to empowering women and girls, strengthening communities, and advancing opportunities through education, leadership, scholarship, and service.

The NAUW Prince George’s County Branch is proud to be part of this enduring legacy.