Our History

Founded in 1971 to promote educational and advancement opportunities for women and men at LLNL, the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory Women’s Association (LLLWA) continues today as an education, discussion, and action group concerned with issues of interest to all Laboratory employees with an emphasis on women’s issues and interests. The first meeting of the LLLWA took place on September 27, 1971 with the topic "Affirmative Action for Women, UC Policy." One month later the bylaws were finalized and the following month the Association submitted a three-page recommendation to the Head of the Affirmative Action Program.

Because of past efforts of the LLLWA Board and Committees, the Laboratory initiated such programs as the Childcare Center, Expanding Your Horizons Conferences, Women's History Month, and publication of the New Parent's Guide. Perhaps one of LLLWA's finest accomplishments is the Scholarship Program, which provides financial awards to women to help in their pursuit of education.

During its entire history, the Association has offered monthly programs targeted to the interests and concerns of women. It would be difficult to find another organization at the Laboratory that has done more to make the Laboratory a better place for everyone—entirely on a volunteer basis and without compensation of any kind.