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Students Study Civil Rights at Naper Settlement

The Â鶹´«Ã½ Women’s Basketball team made their way on September 12 to Naperville's Naper Settlement. As part of Dr. Dennis H. Cremin’s Interpreting World History course, they are visiting nearby sites that connect to civil rights. Wearing masks, keeping socially distanced, and organized into groups of five, they toured the grounds of the outdoor history museum, visited the Martin Mitchel Mansion, and explored the Women: Waves of Change exhibit.

“T³ó±ð Women: Waves of Change exhibit, which runs through December 2020, presents the story of women who were foundational in the development of Naperville and places their stories in the national content. We are 100 years since the passing of the 19th amendment, and this is an exhibit that places women at the center of the story. For the last six months, civil rights and social justice have really been front and center in the United States. The exhibit provided content for a conversation about gender and equality.” said Cremin, History Professor.

Sam Quigley Smith, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, added, “the students found the exhibit to be very powerful. Seeing women from all walks of life truly helps them see that anything is possible! They especially enjoyed seeing the Martin Mitchell Mansion. We had a discussion at the picnic tables on the grounds and were also able to explore Naperville with lunch & shaved ice!”

The team includes Kaitlyn Williams; Reilly Olmstead; Stephanie Hart; Lindsay Harrison; Ryann Ogarek, Grace Hilber; Kae Barth Lofton; Shawnton Brown; Lauren Ramsey; Zarrea Coleman; Emma Brand; Taylor Gugliuzza; Kathryn Schmidt; Jenna Badali; Lily Courier; Jayla Turchin. 

Â鶹´«Ã½ is also partnering with Naper Settlement on "Women’s Vote 100," a series of virtual public programs in October 2020. Visit the website  for more information on the outdoor museum or Women’s Vote 100, the virtual lecture series.

Â鶹´«Ã½ is an innovative and forward-thinking Catholic university offering market-relevant undergraduate and graduate programs to 6,300 students. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Â鶹´«Ã½ is nationally recognized for preparing intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, globally connected and socially responsible graduates. Visit for further information.