SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1910
Mission & Purpose
Our Mission
The mission of the National Association Of University Women, Inc., is to serve women, youth, and the disadvantaged in our communities and in developing countries by addressing educational issues, and strategically partnering with allied organizations.
Our Purpose
The purpose of the National Association of University Women is to promote and conduct educational activities designed to provide community outreach services at every level of development.
Our History
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
National History
The National Association of University Women, Inc. (NAUW) traces its roots to March 1910, when the College Alumnae Club was organized in Washington, D.C. by Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Dr. Sara Brown, Dr. Fairfax Brown, and Miss Mary Cromwell. This pioneering group of university-educated women sought to stimulate young women to attain professional excellence, to exert influence in movements for the civic good, and to promote close personal and intellectual fellowship among professional women.
Evolving to Meet the Times
Expanding Our Mission
On August 9, 1974, at the biennial convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Association adopted an updated charter and became known as the National Association of University Women (NAUW). From its inception, NAUW has been a service and educational organization, advocating for women’s education, campus living conditions, and the need for deans of women, while also addressing broader civic issues such as business opportunities for African Americans, mental health, child welfare, and improved interracial and international relations.
Building a National Organization
From Club to National Association
In 1919, the College Alumnae Club invited university graduates living outside Washington, D.C. to organize branches, beginning with Baltimore. By April 1923, representatives from these branches met in Washington, D.C. and formed a temporary National Association of College Women. At the next conference, held April 25–26, 1924, the permanent organization was established and later that year incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia.
.jpg)
Flushing-North Shore Branch
Our Place in the NAUW Story
Chartered on June 26, 1995, the Flushing-North Shore Branch proudly carries forward NAUW’s national legacy of scholarship, service, and sisterhood—advancing educational opportunities, strengthening community partnerships, and empowering future generations in the North Queens community.
A Legacy of Service, Scholarship, and Sisterhood
Dr. Lenore Gall
A visionary whose commitment to educational excellence and community progress remains the cornerstone of our branch's enduring mission.
Investing in the Next Generation
The Flushing–North Shore Branch is committed to expanding educational opportunities and helping students confidently prepare for life after high school. Through our annual academic scholarship and the Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman Scholarship, we recognize promising scholars who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, perseverance, and a commitment to their communities.
Our support extends beyond financial awards. Through college-readiness programs, students receive guidance with HBCU exploration, applications, financial-aid resources, and academic goal-setting. By combining scholarships and mentoring, we help students pursue their academic and professional goals.
Empowering the North Queens community through dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence since 1995.
Cheryl L. Phipps
As our Inaugural President, her pioneering leadership laid the vital foundation for decades of impactful service and sisterhood in North Queens.
Our Commitment
Today, the Flushing–North Shore Branch remains steadfast in its mission to promote educational achievement, support lifelong learning, and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential. Through scholarships, community partnerships, and dedicated service, we continue to shape a brighter future for our community. We are proud of our history and inspired locally by our mission.
Promoting Literacy, Advocacy, and Engagement
The Flushing–North Shore Branch advances literacy, lifelong learning, and social responsibility through signature initiatives such as the Reading Jubilee and the Hilda A. Davis Workshop Series. These programs encourage a love of reading, strengthen educational skills, and provide meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Our civic-engagement efforts also empower members and community residents to become informed and active participants through literacy enrichment, educational workshops, voter education, and advocacy around issues affecting women, children, and families.
Milestones & Partnerships
For over three decades, the Flushing–North Shore Branch has fostered community engagement throughout North Queens. We have proudly partnered with organizations including the Langston Hughes Community Library, NYC Votes, East Elmhurst Community Board 3, Vaughn College of Aeronautics & Technology, and BASICS International in Accra, Ghana, to strengthen communities locally and globally. Through the Reading Jubilee and Hilda A. Davis Workshop Series, we provide year-round programming focused on financial literacy, health, and personal empowerment.