Virginia Gildersleeve American academic, the only female US delegate to the United Nations Charter Conference, held in San Francisco in April 1945. Date of Birth: 03.10.1877 Country: USA

Biography of Virginia Gildersleeve

Born on October 3, 1877, in New York, Virginia Gildersleeve was an American academic and the only female delegate from the United States at the United Nations Charter Conference, held in San Francisco in April 1945. She attended the prestigious Brearley School and successfully completed her education before going on to study at Barnard College. In 1899, Gildersleeve finished her studies and received financial support from Columbia University to conduct research in medieval history.

During her time at Barnard College, Gildersleeve focused on studying the English language. In 1908, after completing her education, she became an English language teacher at both Barnard and Columbia. In 1910, Gildersleeve was promoted to the position of associate professor and a year later, she was appointed as the dean of Barnard College.

In 1918, Gildersleeve met Caroline Spurgeon and Rose Sidgwick, two highly progressive women. Together, they founded the International Federation of University Women a year later. After the end of World War I, Gildersleeve immersed herself in international politics. During World War II, she led the women's department of the Advisory Council and later served on the United Nations Charter Committee.

Gildersleeve's work was multifaceted, and she played a crucial role in rebuilding higher education in Japan. It was for this work that she was awarded the France's Legion of Honor. Despite her significant achievements, Gildersleeve's personal life remained shrouded in mystery. According to some sources, she had a close relationship with her former colleague, Caroline Spurgeon.

Virginia Gildersleeve passed away on July 7, 1965. Her accomplishments and contributions were highly significant and served as a catalyst for the work of her successors. In 1969, eleven members of the International Federation of University Women established the Virginia Gildersleeve International Fund (VGIF), which actively provided assistance to those in need in various regions around the world.