Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame

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The Michigan Women's Hall of Fame (MWHOF) recognizes notable women, both from the past and present, who have been connected to the U.S. state of Michigan. It was established in 1983 by Gladys Beckwith and is supported by the Michigan Women's Studies Association.

The Michigan Women's Hall of Fame (MWHOF) recognizes notable women, both from the past and present, who have been connected to the U.S. state of Michigan. It was established in 1983 by Gladys Beckwith and is supported by the Michigan Women's Studies Association. Five professors from Michigan State University, who taught a course about women in American society, inspired the creation of the Association and the Hall of Fame.

Nominations for the Hall of Fame come from the public and are open to women who became famous in Michigan, were born there, or have lived in the state for a long time. A review committee evaluates nominations based on their achievements, and a second committee selects eight to ten women each year for induction. Honorees are celebrated at a ceremony and dinner in October, where they receive a bronze Lifetime Achievement Award. As of 2021, more than 340 women have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

The MWHOF was originally located in the Cooley-Haze House, a building constructed in 1903 at 213 W. Malcolm X St. (formerly W. Main Street), just south of downtown Lansing, Michigan. The house featured a library with resources and display areas dedicated to preserving the history and art of Michigan women. It opened to the public on June 10, 1987, and included the Belen Gallery, which showcased artwork by Michigan women.

In 2017, the Michigan Women's Historical Center and Hall of Fame moved to its current location at 110 W. Allegan St., Suite 10, in Meridian Mall.

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