The American Association of University Women

AAUW is a national organization of more than 100,000 college graduates which advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Membership is open to all graduates who hold a associate's or higher degree from an accredited college or university. Student-affiliate status in AAUW is available for anyone studying for a bachelor's degree at a qualified institution. Until graduating with that degree, a student-affiliate may participate in all AAUW activities except for holding office or voting.

At the national level, the Association provides legislative influence and guidance to capitol hill and a framework to support state and local activities. Fellowships and grants to promote educational opportunities for women are available though AAUW. Support for women fighting discrimination in higher education and the workplace is available though the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund.

Through widely respected research, AAUW has drawn national attention to the problems girls face in school and the problems women face in the workplace. Since 1992 with the release of "How Schools Shortchange Girls" over 20 research publications have been released. The latest research report is "Why So Few?" This study tackles the question of why so few women are becoming scientists and engineers.

At the state level, AAUW provides legislative support and guidance to state lawmaking bodies. California AAUW was launched in San Francisco in 1886 and began lobbying immediately. With 14,000 members and over 150 branches, CA AAUW is a strong and meaningful force within the Association.