Mission
The AMI aims to achieve equity and improve lives through feminist initiatives that extend knowledge and understanding of issues related to women, girls, gender, and social justice for the Mount community and beyond.
History
Women’s leadership was identified in the university’s strategic plan Destination 2012 as a standard for many members of the Mount community in all areas. Supporting women leaders is an abiding principle to which the Mount community remains committed.
The Institute for the Study of Women (ISW) at the Mount revitalized and renamed itself in 2011 to the Institute for Women, Gender and Social Justice (IWGSJ) to reflect the contemporary realities of the Mounts’ ongoing commitment to gender equality and Women’s Studies. In March 2013, the Institute was renamed to honor Alexa McDonough and became the Alexa McDonough Institute for Women, Gender and Social Justice.
The Institute will live its vision by undertaking research that coordinates, supports, and builds capacity among feminist researchers and creative artists at the Mount, other campuses, in community groups and organizations. As well, the Institute is committed to education by creating and offering programs and courses in related areas as well as providing gender perspectives in all disciplines. The Institute will actively seek to secure new partnerships, access funding, and opportunities in the areas of community development, gender, race, sexuality, class, ability and social justice.
Key commitments to advancement of women at the Mount
- Nancy’s Chair in Women’s Studies
- Atlantis
- Department of Women’s Studies
- Graduate Program in Women’s Studies
- Centre for Women in Business
- Chair for women in Science and Engineering (NSERC) – Dr.Tamara Franz-Odendaal
- Canada Research Chair in Social Innovation and Community Engagement – Dr. Maya Eichler