“Oberlin College would gain fame for its double commitment to coeducation according both to gender and to race. From 1836 to 1894, women students were under the direction of the Ladies’ Board of Managers, which was mainly composed of professors’ wives. In 1894, the positions of dean of Conservatory women and dean of College women were created.”
“In 1862, Oberlin graduated Mary Jane Patterson, the first African American woman to earn a college degree. Oberlin also enrolled Margru, also known as Sarah Kinson, who, as an African child, had been among the Amistad captives; Kinson was probably the first African woman to participate in American higher education.”
“The Oberlin Female Moral Reform Society was formed in 1835 as an auxiliary to the New York Female Moral Reform Society before her move to Oberlin. The society’s purpose was to battle “the sin of licentiousness, in all its forms and with all its horrors,… sustain moral purity among the virtuous,… [and] reclaim all those who have wandered from the path of virtue.” Members of the society concentrated especially on setting an example of modest dress and behavior for the Oberlin community
“In 1870 that the Oberlin Temperance League was formed. Its purpose was “by all lawful measures, to suppress the traffic in, and use of intoxicating liquors.” Leaders also worked to promote “pure morality” in Oberlin. Infused with a strong sense of public duty and an almost missionary-like zeal, members of the league also sought to rid Oberlin of other vices, such as street smoking and the playing of billiards.” https://lnkd.in/g7F9jAqx From Thelin’s History of American Higher Education
Deep Thoughts on Higher Ed 