Close to 1,000 alumnae returned to Sewanee Oct. 31-Nov. 3 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of women as students in the College.
Close to 1,000 alumnae returned to Sewanee Oct. 31-Nov. 3 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of women as students in the College. Their numbers and enthusiasm showed in a constant flow of hellos and hugs, in standing-room-only panel discussions and receptions, and in a sold-out (and then some) gala celebration. A highlight was an incredible show by Sewanee School of Letters graduate Amanda Shires, who not only helped us celebrate 50 years of women at Sewanee but brought a special guest to accompany her on stage—husband Jason Isbell.
Read more about the weekend here (with photos and video). See more about the history of women at Sewanee.
The University is observing the anniversary all year with concerts, plays, and lectures by many accomplished women. Earlier this semester, students from the Department of Theatre and Dance gave a staged reading of Gee's Bend, by Elyzabeth Wilder, and performances of Our Country’s Good, by Timberlake Wertenbaker. Emilie Townes presented the School of Theology’s DuBose Lectures (as it was previously titled), and oceanographer Sylvia Earle gave the Foundation Day address.
The Department of Theatre and Dance will continue to spotlight the work of women artists and playwrights during the 2019-20 season, with DanceWise coming in November. In the spring, Theatre and Dance will present Stiff, a one-woman show by guest artist Sherry Jo Ward, and Ugly Lies the Bone by Lindsay Ferrentino.
The Carlos Gallery in the Studio Art Building is presenting Sympathetic Dissonance, an exhibition of sculptural installations by artist Mary Stuart Hall, C’04. Hall will give an artist talk in November.
November also will bring the annual Anita Goodstein Lecture, this year by historian Margaret Marsh, as well as a talk by immigration attorney Sarah W.H. Owings, C'03, “Backwards and in High Heels: How Immigration Law, Policy, and Practice Affect Women.” Shin-Young Lee will present a solo organ recital as part of the Performing Arts Series.
Additional lectures and performances featuring accomplished women will occur in the spring.
