American University Washington College of Law is an institution with a unique heritage. It was founded over 120 years ago by two pioneering women - Ellen Spencer Mussey and Emma Gillett - at a time when women were generally excluded from the legal profession. The founders created a tradition of providing opportunities for those historically outside the mainstream of the legal profession. They also believed that lawyers had a crucial role to play in the development of society, business, government, and individual freedoms. Their extraordinary foresight and perseverance has formed the foundation for this law school. Over 120 years later, as a center of educational scholarly excellence, where women and men from all backgrounds continue to pursue the founders' mission, WCL is a testament to these women's ideals and tenacity.

1910s: "WCL 1910s"

1920s: "WCL 1920s"