Rearview Reflections: Elizabeth Arden, Smith College, and the Evolution of Womanhood

It is so interesting to see how women are evolving. Sometimes peeking with a rear view mirror can lead to insights.

In 1947 Elizabeth Arden gave a gift of $20,000 for a scholarship to be established at Smith College.  The scholarship was to be awarded annually to a senior who has maintained a good scholastic standing, a position of leadership, a high standard of health and an attractive personality and appearance.

After reading the very well written book, “Becoming Elizabeth Arden The Woman Behind the Global Empire by Stacey Cordery it is clear to me that Elizabeth Arden worked hard to make herself the woman she described as the scholarship candidate.

As a Smith College alum I wonder how much of that statement could not be said out loud today – and is that the right answer? Perhaps the word attractive would offend people today. But what does attractive mean? Merriam Webster defines it as charming or appealing. This broader meanings—charming, appealing, engaging are traits that apply to people of all genders and are invaluable in leadership.

We could all do with more charm today.