Town and Gown

Town and Gown was organized on October 24, 1921 under the name “Lausanne Hall Guild,” to create a homelike atmosphere for the newly opened women’s dormitory, Lausanne Hall. In 1925 the name changed to “Town and Gown.” According to the group’s constitution, its new mission was “to promote a closer relationship between the faculty women of Willamette University and the women of the community interested in the welfare of the University.” In 1957, the group added to its objective the funding of “any student award, project or activity directly connected with Willamette University.” Throughout its years, the group became closely associated with the music program and would annually fund several small scholarships for music students. Town and Gown met six or seven times a year and meetings typically commenced with musical performances by Willamette students or faculty. Following the musical program, the group hosted a guest speaker and the topics ranged widely from African-American women’s history to the United States’ federal tax structure. After conducting group business, the group adjourned for a tea time and social hour. The funds generated from the membership dues and the contributions made at the tea table were the basis for the music scholarships. Additionally, the group actively advocated for women by collaborating with the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

From the guide to the Town and Gown records, 1921-1998, 2001, 1977-1998, (Willamette University University Archives and Special Collections)