New University Website and Journal Honors Idaho’s Women of Influence

The University of Idaho has debuted a new online resource “highlighting the contributions of women to Idaho’s history and contemporary society.” The Idaho’s Women of Influence website welcomes input from the general public on women who have played a significant role in the state’s history. Women can be connected to the state by birth, residence, or accomplishment relating to the state.

Among the women profiled so far are actress Lana Turner and former vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin, who were both born in Idaho. Also, Idaho’s pioneering women politicians are featured. Among the women with ties to education is Jennie Hughes Smith, who in 1899 was the first African American woman graduate of the University of Idaho.

The initiative will also include a peer-reviewed journal by the same name.