Women have always worked, whether in the home or the business sector. During the height of WWII, women were encouraged to enter the workforce, but they were also deluged with propaganda that they should join the workforce because it was their patriotic duty. When the war was over, many women lost their jobs and were reminded that their first responsibility was to their home and their family.

On September 22, 1949, Shirley Cupp, Irma Beisel, Frances Stuckey, and Mr. Hilary Bufton Jr. met in a coffee shop in downtown Kansas City to incorporate the American Business Women’s Association at a time when it was considered socially unacceptable for women to pursue a full-time career, have a girls night out or even join an association.

A statement made by Mr. Bufton in the early 50s summarizes ABWA’s impact on societal norms: “In many ways, the first generation of ABWA members was the breaking tradition…Without even knowing it, I guess they were paving the way for today’s women.”

While women’s opportunities and pay in the business sector have evolved, work still needs to be done. Breaking barriers for women and on behalf of women is nothing new in ABWA—we’ve been doing so since 1949!  

ABWA’S MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition.