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PULLMAN, Wash.-- Susan Armitage, the Claudius O. and Mary R. Johnson Distinguished Professor of History at Washington State University, was announced as the WSU Woman of the Year at the annual Women’s Recognition Luncheon held at the Pullman campus today, April 16.

Armitage, who teaches for the departments of history and of women’s studies, was recognized for promoting new and innovative approaches to the study of the history of women in the American West and mentoring generations of students and colleagues in the process.

She came to WSU in 1978 as the first director of Women Studies and as an assistant professor of history and by 1986 was made full professor. She has served as director of the Center for Columbia River History, director of the American Studies program and as editor of “Frontiers,” a WSU publication that addresses issues related to women. She also has held the Edward R. Meyer Distinguished Professor of History and Women’s Studies.

Armitage has been one of the first scholars to develop women’s role in the American West through research, teaching and service. She has been a Mellon Scholar at the Wellesley College Center for Research on Women, a Hilliard Scholar at the University of Nevada at Reno, chair of the Association for Faculty Women at WSU, recipient of the Faculty Distinguished Achievement Award form the College of Liberal Arts and Distinguished Fulbright Chair in American History at Moscow State University, Russia.

Her work led to her being invited by First Lady Laura Bush to the White House in 2003. Throughout her career, Armitage has been a key strategist in long-term efforts to advance women at WSU.

As part of Women’s History month, WSU recognizes the distinct role women have in creating social change, increasing equality for all and building community. During the luncheon, five WSU Women of Distinction were also recognized.

Ardith De Raad, principal assistant at the WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center, received the Outside WSU award for her community leadership in many areas and in particular for her work in the area of domestic violence. 

Felicia Gaskins, associate vice president for equity and diversity, received the WSU Alumna Award for 30 years of advancing the ideals and work of equity and diversity at the university.

Jill Griffin, assistant director at the Center for Reproductive Biology/Center for Integrated Biotechnology, received the Staff Award for using her interest in sociology, gender interactions and organizational theory to guide and inform her vision for positive social change at WSU and in the community through multiple organizations and partnerships.

Judy Meuth, clinical associate professor of women’s studies, received the Faculty Award for her efforts to promote gender equity and cultural inclusion, inspiring hundreds of girls and women to pursue careers in science and technology.

Xyanthe Neider, a graduate student in educational leadership and counseling psychology, received the student award for her leadership and commitment to creating a positive environment for student participation, cultural studies and the advancement of women.

Susan Armitage

Ardith De Raad

Felicia Gaskins

Jill Griffin

Judy Meuth

Xyanthe Neider

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