The Women’s Caucus for Political Science (WCPS) is a national, nonprofit organization whose mission is to upgrade the status of women in the profession of political science, to promote equal opportunities for women political scientists for graduate school admission, financial assistance in such schools, and in employment, promotion, and tenure, to promote the development of non- academic, professional careers for women political scientists, to promote the recruitment of members and the development of regional caucuses, and to encourage application of the skills of political science to the promotion of equal opportunities for all women.

Founded in 1969, the WCPS was instrumental in the American Political Science Association refusing to meet in states that had not endorsed the Equal Rights Amendment during the ratification period, and has advanced the representation and visibility of women in the profession. WCPS sponsors programs addressing issues and public policies of concern to women in the profession, provides support for women who feel they have been discriminated against through the Betty Glad Legal Defense Fund and through awards recognizing the contributions of women political scientists.

In recent years, the WCPS has become active in taking public positions on issues that impact equal opportunities for all women, such as endorsement of the Lily Ledbetter Act in 2009. Organized as a 501(c)3 entity, WCPS views its mission as one of education and advocacy. The WCPS also includes regional affiliates (including in the West, South and Midwest regions of the U.S.) and includes women in both the academy and in applied positions. WCPS meets during the annual meeting of the American Political Science Association. Between meetings, WCPS members maintain contact though a quarterly newsletter (WCPS Quarterly) and through discussion on the WCPS listserv.

Current Officers