150 years later, Boyd's legacy persists

In the 150 years since Margaret Boyd broke barriers as Ohio University’s first female graduate, women in higher education have made great strides, conducted groundbreaking research and become an integral part of universities across the nation. Women of Ohio University have historically dominated enrollment figures and made significant contributions to OHIO’s culture and success. 

Boyd, native to Athens County, was the first female to be admitted to OHIO. Following her graduation with a B.A. in 1873, Boyd went on to earn an M.A. from OHIO in 1876. She taught high school in Ohio and Indiana and taught math at Wesleyan Female College in Cincinnati. In 1883, OHIO hired its own first female faculty member, Cynthia Weld, who taught English. 

The pursuits of Bobcat women in the years to follow left a remarkable impact. In 1913, the University hired its first dean of women, Irma Voigt. Three years later, Martha Jane Hunley Blackburn became OHIO’s first Black female graduate. 

Women enrolled at OHIO have repeatedly stood up for their beliefs, directly shaping the University. In 1972, students spoke out against the discriminatory curfews designated for women on campus, causing the practice to end.