Title

History of Women in Public Administration: Redefining Theory and Practice, Past and Present

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Comments

Presented at the 2009 American Society for Public Administration Annual Conference, Miami Florida, March 20-24.

Abstract

This paper traces ideas in public administration that emerged from women's historical experience. The story begins with Florence Nightingale and the insights about hospital administration that emerged as she expanded the women's sphere (sanitary reform and additional supplies) to care for sick soldiers. Her ideas are then moved to the US Civil War where they were applied by the United States Sanitary Commission (USSC). The supply arm of the USSC was managed primarily by women in regional hubs. There 7,000 ladies aid societies were transformed into the largest and most sustained relief effort the US has ever undertaken. The ideas of the women of the USSC are then linked to the accomplishments of their daughters - specifically the Settlement Women. The ethics and conception of social democracy of Jane Addams, the most famous settlement worker are stressed. Connections to contemporary public administration are highlighted.