George Mason University Study

Army recruiters have for years attracted new recruits by emphasizing the educational and leadership development skills an Army experience provides.  No one has taken a good look at how very true this statement is for women who have served in the Army.  The U.S. Army Women’s Foundation, in partnership with George Mason University, has initiated a research study exploring the economic and social impact of women’s service in the U.S. Army.  This information documents how women have benefited from their Army service. Click here to download the study.

This study was made possible through a bequest from the estate of Sergeant Major Julia Bennett, an African-American woman who retired in 1986 after 28 years of Army service. SGM Bennett epitomized the findings of this study, that Army service gives many women opportunities that would not otherwise be available in the civilian community.

To date, a questionnaire was distributed to approximately 1,500 U.S. Army Women’s Foundation members.  The responses to this survey have become the “Pilot Project” and will serve as the basis for future and expanded studies.  The questionnaire addressed specific factual questions regarding how the respondents had benefited from the Army service.

The questionnaire response was overwhelming.  While only 300 responses were required to make the study statistically valid, over 600 questionnaires were returned.  The quality and depth of the responses was extremely illuminating for the researchers.  Thanks to all of you who took the time to participate in our initial survey.  Many of you provided wonderful information that gave us insight on where the next phase of the study should go. 

The Director of Development, Peggy Trossen, has contacted innumerable sources to generate additional funds and interest in the study.  Her contacts include members of the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representative, Virginia State Legislature, the Department of Defense and the Department of Labor. 

The future direction of this study will be determined by the initial findings and any specific needs for information identified by interested parties. We expect to publish the initial study results on this website in the near future. 

Read the Press Release

Read the Army Times article