San Diego History Center launches Center for Women’s History

The San Diego History Center (SDHC) in Balboa Park hosted a special recognition event on Nov. 6, marking the public launch of its Center for Women’s History. The new Center serves as a hub for exhibitions, research, preservation, and education dedicated to the stories and impact of women in the San Diego region.

The milestone event also celebrated the completed merger of the Women’s Museum of California into the San Diego History Center, creating a unified home for women’s history in this region, according to a news release.

The launch was enhanced by the announcement of a $1 million pledge of support from the Peggy & Robert Matthews Foundation, which will support the History Center’s REIMAGINE Campaign. As part of its future plans, the San Diego History Center will create a gallerydedicated to women’s history and recognize the significant contributions of Peggy Matthews to the San Diego History Center and her connection to Balboa Park and this region.

The evening also honored the past San Diego Women’s Hall of Fame inductees—trailblazers whose leadership and vision have shaped the region—while outlining the Center’s forward- looking mission. Olympic gold medalist and 2009 Women’s Hall of Fame inductee Monique Henderson delivered a powerful keynote address.

“San Diego’s future is stronger when we understand the full sweep of its past,” said Debra L. Cushman-Parrish, chair elect, San Diego History Center Board of Trustees, in the news release. “By establishing the Center for Women’s History, we’re committing to the continued preservation, research, exhibitions, and education that keep women’s contributions visible, accessible, and central to our region’s story.”

“The Center builds on the rich legacy of the Women’s Museum of California,” added Sandra Maas, SDHC Board of Trustee and past president of the Women’s Museum of California, in the news release. “We’re expanding partnerships, advancing collection, and creating exhibitions, programs and events that invite students, families, lifelong learners and tourists to engage with local women’s history.”

Guests at the event celebrated the completed merger, connected with staff and partners, and explored current exhibitions, including San Diego Women in STEM and Women in The Law & Society.  Visit www.sandiegohistory.org for more information.