DePaul University Athletics
DePaul to Celebrate the Women's Athletics Association’s Pioneering Role
1/28/2025 12:21:00 PM | ATHLETICS
At the February 1 DePaul women's Basketball game against Seton Hall, DePaul will recognize the pioneering impact of the Women's Athletics Association (WAA). The WAA was organized by the DePaul Physical Education Department under the leadership of Dr. Jean Nordberg. Since opening its doors, DePaul had offered athletics activities for women through physical education curriculum, but Nordberg championed a new chapter in women's athletics development in 1962-63 as the WAA transformed from mostly "intramural" activities to a slate of intercollegiate contests with opponents throughout Chicagoland and the region. The early days of WAA competition featured women's basketball, softball, volleyball, and gymnastics. In addition to intercollegiate athletics, WAA was designed to give leadership and ambassador opportunities for students who advocated for physical education activities and the advancement of women's sports in general. In 1973-74, DePaul transitioned WAA to modern varsity women's athletics, complete with scholarships.
DePaul Athletics hosted a fall luncheon in October of 2024 where WAA members met the current volleyball team, toured the renovated Sullivan Athletics Center, and shared stories about their WAA experience. The WAA members and their guests are now invited to return to the women's basketball game on Feb. 1 to be recognized for their foundational work for Blue Demon Athletics. Guests will be invited to attend a pregame reception in the Mikan Society Lounge and be featured in game.
"As part of our National Girls and Women in Sports Day festivities, it is fitting that we recognize the role these women held in paving the way for our vast history of success in women's athletics" said Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy. "These women advanced women's athletics at a time that was so crucial, yet their work has gone largely unrecognized. Hearing the stories of their admiration for the visionary leadership provided by Dr. Jean Nordberg is inspiring."
For more details about the February 1 festivities, WAA members are encouraged to contact Thad Dohrn at tdohrn@depaul.edu.
DePaul Athletics hosted a fall luncheon in October of 2024 where WAA members met the current volleyball team, toured the renovated Sullivan Athletics Center, and shared stories about their WAA experience. The WAA members and their guests are now invited to return to the women's basketball game on Feb. 1 to be recognized for their foundational work for Blue Demon Athletics. Guests will be invited to attend a pregame reception in the Mikan Society Lounge and be featured in game.
"As part of our National Girls and Women in Sports Day festivities, it is fitting that we recognize the role these women held in paving the way for our vast history of success in women's athletics" said Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy. "These women advanced women's athletics at a time that was so crucial, yet their work has gone largely unrecognized. Hearing the stories of their admiration for the visionary leadership provided by Dr. Jean Nordberg is inspiring."
For more details about the February 1 festivities, WAA members are encouraged to contact Thad Dohrn at tdohrn@depaul.edu.
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