Women have been using sophisticated communication strategies and tactics to work for important social change since the early 20th Century, according to one of the speakers celebrating 30 years of Women’s Studies at West Virginia University.
Diana Martinelli, Widmeyer Professor in Public Relations at WVU’s Perley Isaac Reed School of Journalism, will speak at one of several presentations celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Center for Women’s Studies.

“The Role of Women in Communication Campaigns for 20th Century Social Change,” will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 6, in Hatfields in the Mountainlair from noon to 1:30 p.m.

“Women have traditionally been good communicators, as they tend to focus on relationships and family,” Martinelli said. “As a result, women have long been attuned to such societal needs as health and education and have worked to help improve these areas.

“They also have long been politically active in the U.S., even before earning the right to vote, through activism and personal influence.”

“The women who led campaigns for suffrage, health education, civil and equal rights were intelligent, politically savvy and committed to improving society. They used effective, persuasive communication campaigns to do so,” she added.

Martinelli said that by studying and sharing information about how gender influences politics, the economy and technology, society becomes more aware of how subtle factors can play a large role in people’s everyday perceptions and lives.

Women’s studies scholars do a service by continuing to add knowledge and recognition to women’s accomplishments and challenges in cultures worldwide, she said.

For more information about the event or the 30th anniversary celebration, please contact Ann Oberhauser at Ann.Oberhauser@mail.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

CONTACT: Rebecca Herod, Marketing and Communications Coordinator
304-293-7405, ext. 5251, Rebecca.Herod@mail.wvu.edu

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