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Message from the Director

Dear friends,

Throughout our nation's history, America's first ladies have influenced politics, domestic policy, and global diplomacy. Popular expectations of the role continue to evolve, mirroring the changing status of women in America. The position of first lady, and the influence and accomplishments of these remarkable women, pose a fascinating topic in American culture. Launched in 2011, American University's Legacies of America's First Ladies Initiative and conference series features distinguished guests -- including first ladies,  presidents, and first families; White House staff; scholars and authors; and members of the media -- who highlight first ladies’ contributions and their unique platform to advocate for global and domestic issues, promote change, improve our society  and impact our national culture. 

In 2021, I joined with several first lady scholars and nationwide experts to launch the First Ladies Association for Research and Education (FLARE), affiliated with American University’s School of Public Affairs, to promote and publicize research and education relevant to the contributions and legacies of first ladies. In 2023, through a collaboration with FLARE colleagues, I co-authored the nation’s first-ever textbook on the contributions of first ladies, U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies. The book was later adapted for a public market version, Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.

Thank you for your interest in the work of the First Ladies Initiative. On this website you will find links to videos, photos and media interviews as well as a robust resource list of publications about First Ladies. I hope that this information will inspire a deeper appreciation of this powerful platform, and of the unique club of women who served the nation in this unique role.

Anita McBride
Executive-in-Residence, Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies
Director, First Ladies Initiative