Armenians

THEIR GROUNDBREAKING CONTRIBUTIONS REFLECT A LEGACY OF INNOVATION THAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE FUTURE GENERATIONS

Arlene Voski Avakian

Trailblazer in women's studies and cultural narratives

Women’s-Studies Pioneer, Author

Bio


While working on her master’s in history and Doctor of Education degrees at University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in the 1970s and 1980s, Arlene Voski Avakian helped organize the university’s Women’s Studies Program. She later joined the university’s faculty as professor and program director.


Through her research and teaching, Avakian went on to develop the program into the nationally recognized Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.


Avakian has authored numerous articles and books on women’s and cultural-identity issues. Her books include Through the Kitchen Window: Women Writers Explore the Intimate Meanings of Food and Cooking.

Arlene Voski Avakian