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Within higher education, scholars with a feminist perspective have enriched numerous fields of study by challenging their basic assumptions. For example, new approaches in psychology have questioned the Freudian concept of feminine sexuality. Revised methods of studying primate behavior, along with an influx of female scientists in that field, have challenged earlier theories about male dominance and female passivity, illuminating the ways in which gender roles develop. And feminist perspectives have helped shape the new emphasis on social history as well as contemporary literary criticism, not merely by adding women and their work to the lists of great names and classic titles, but by questioning assumptions about the writing of history and the perpetuation of a literary canon.

Finally, the increasing prominence of women in education—as students, teachers, and researchers—provides important role models. Foundation-supported pioneers have been important not only for their work but also for their symbolic value as capable, articulate, and educated leaders.