Colorado Women's College facts for kids

Colorado Women's College was a special school in Denver, Colorado. It was part of the University of Denver and offered classes for women, especially in the evenings, on weekends, and online. It first opened in 1909 as a private college just for women. Later, in 1982, it joined with the University of Denver.

Porter Hall (now President's Hall) at the former Colorado Women's College campus

Curtis Hall (now Gaebe Hall) at the former Colorado Women's College campus

The chapel at the former Colorado Women's College campus

The chapel and amphitheater at the former Colorado Women's College campus

History of Colorado Women's College

Colorado Women's College was started by Reverend Robert Cameron. He was a pastor in Denver. He wanted to create a college for women in the Western United States. He hoped it would be as good as famous schools like Vassar College.

Early Years and Name Changes

The college was officially created in 1888. However, it did not open its doors until 21 years later, in 1909. In 1932, it became officially recognized as an accredited college. This means it met high standards for education.

In 1967, the college changed its name to Temple Buell College. This was to honor Temple Buell, a local person who gave a very large gift of $25 million to the school. But this name change made some former students unhappy. They stopped donating money. Because of these money problems, the college changed its name back to Colorado Women's College.

Student Life and Athletics

When it was a residential college, students lived on campus. They had a busy social life. The campus newspaper was called The Western Graphic. Students also created yearbooks and scrapbooks. The college offered sports too, like field hockey and basketball.

Joining the University of Denver

By the late 1970s, fewer students were enrolling. The college also had less money. An expert said the college was in "financial trouble." It did not have enough new students to keep going.

In 1982, the college's buildings and other things were sold. They were bought by the University of Denver. The University of Denver then opened a new program called The Women's College of the University of Denver. This new program was seen as continuing the history of the original Colorado Women's College. The old campus was used by this new Women's College until 2001. After that, it became the Denver campus for Johnson & Wales University.

New Focus for Women's Education

In 2015, Rebecca Chopp became the first female leader of the University of Denver. She decided to stop the bachelor's degree program at Colorado Women's College. Instead, she wanted to create new and different ways to educate women.

Colorado Women's College has always helped women get an education. This new decision continued that goal. The college now works to help women and promote fairness for all genders. They do this by researching and offering programs that support women in jobs and education.

College Closure

In 2020, the University of Denver closed the Women's College. Its remaining programs were moved to other parts of the university. This decision was made because of financial needs.

Notable Alumni

• Rebecca Ann King, who was Miss America in 1974.
• Edna Ahgeak MacLean, an educator and activist for the Inupiat language.
• Cleo Parker Robinson, a professional dancer.