The Association for Women in Communications traces its roots to April 8, 1909, when seven journalism students at the University of Washington founded Theta Sigma Phi. At the time, the University of Washington was only the second university in the nation to establish a journalism department, following the University of Missouri – Columbia, which offered the first undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees in the field. 

Over time, the Theta Sigma Phi expanded to universities across the country and eventually evolved into professional organizations supporting women already established in the workforce. The organization’s guiding principles were: to advance women in all fields of communications; uphold First Amendment rights and responsibilities; recognize distinguished professional achievement; and promote high professional standards throughout the communications industry. In 1954, Theta Sigma Phi expanded to include international membership.

Creating Opportunity in a Changing Profession

With a mission to improve working conditions for women professionals and inspire individuals to achieve greater success, the organization broadened its scope beyond journalism to include publicity, advertising, and creative writing. As career opportunities continued to evolve, additional communications-related fields were incorporated to further expand the membership base.

In 1972, the organization was renamed Women in Communications Inc. (WICI). That same year, men were admitted as full members rather than as honorary members. In 1974, WICI established the Clarion Awards to recognize excellence across all areas of communications, encourage continued achievement, and highlight the role of communications in addressing contemporary issues.

Celebrating Excellence

Throughout its history, members were frequently recognized for being the first in many endeavors – many serving as reporters, photographers, and war correspondents during World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Their eyewitness accounts helped shape public understanding during and after these conflicts. Members were later rewarded with a Pulitzer Prize and published work in such distinguished publications as Life Magazine. Notable members included; journalist Barbara Waters, who in 1976 became the first woman to co-anchor a network news program, receiving a record-breaking salary from ABC; and longtime White House correspondent Helen Thomas. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was granted an honorary membership to AWC. She was known for being the first, First Lady to allow only women reporters to attend her press meetings.

Supporting Women Through Every Era

WICI was also a strong supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment, first introduced in 1923 and passed by Congress in 1972. It was then sent to the states for ratification, falling short of the required number of states. Lacking the Amendment, the organization continued to consistently advocate for gender equality and women’s rights.

The organization’s annual (later biennial) national conferences featured timely programming focused on the communications industry, economic trends, and women’s issues. These events provided opportunities for professional growth, meaningful networking, and collaboration. High-caliber keynote speakers, Clarion Awards, along with chapter and individual recognitions were highlights of the national conferences. 

Adapting, Innovating, and Leading Forward

In the early 1990s, WICI faced significant challenges, including declining membership and rising expenses. In 1996, delegates voted to dissolve WICI and establish The Association for Women in Communications as its successor. To sustain the organization, volunteer board members made substantial personal commitments, assuming more “hands-on” leadership roles and reducing reliance on costly management services. The board also embraced emerging technologies, transitioning from telephone conferencing to webinars and video conferencing to support meetings and professional development.

Despite these efforts, economic shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic further impacted membership. Many members became less able to commit time and resources to leadership roles, prioritizing work-life balance and local engagement over national conferences and organizations. With the rise of the internet offering immediate access to training and resources, surveys revealed a strong preference for local connections rather than nationwide networks.

Ultimately, the decision was made to close the national organization. For many, it marked the bittersweet conclusion of a legacy that lasted 114 years and that had supported thousands of members and included many nationally recognized leaders.

AWC Springfield: Continuing the Legacy Locally

A handful of professional and student chapters committed to carrying the AWC mission forward at the local level. One of those chapters is AWC Springfield, Missouri, which continues to offer outstanding programs and provides women with a trusted, respectful, and values-driven space within the community. In 2025, AWC Springfield reached the historic milestone of more than 110 members.