In 2003, WMU Intercollegiate Athletics retroactively awarded varsity letters to all female student athletes who played intercollegiate athletics prior to 1982. Out of the celebratory event for these female student athletes, the Women of Western (WOW) was created. WOW provides opportunities to connect former and current WMU athletes and physical education majors. This women’s group consists of faculty, emeriti faculty, alumni and students in programs from the department of HPHE, although all individuals who have an interest in supporting and promoting underrepresented populations in athletics and HPHE are welcome.
The Women of Western Fund supports WMU students in educational endeavors with a focus on teaching or coaching women’s sports. The fund will be made available to underrepresented populations in HPHE programs to provide support for costs associated with educational activities and/or special athletics opportunities, such as internships, field placements, attendance at and travel for conferences, study abroad, or competitions outside of regular season intercollegiate athletics.