Rotman Commerce: Women’s History Month
In 1924, a mere seven students made up the inaugural graduating Bachelor of Commerce class at the University of Toronto, notably including just one woman. Today, a century later, upon the graduation of our 100th anniversary class this past June 2024, the program would present a striking contrast with women making up 51% of its students. This remarkable evolution is a testament to how Rotman Commerce has not only kept pace with changing times, but has also been a proactive force in shaping them. As we continue to embrace and drive diversity, our community’s dynamic growth paints a promising picture of what lies ahead.
The beginning of inclusivity towards women in student life
The Commerce Club was formed as the program started in 1920, a student organization specifically for business students to gain connections through social events. Of note, it was male-exclusive; women were not permitted membership. It wasn’t until 10 years passed before the Women’s Commerce Club was officially formed, with Frances Bechtel as its first president. The club’s foundation was encouraged by Professor Gilbert E. Jackson, the supervisor of the commerce program at the time, who maintained the need for a club that supports women’s needs and interests.
Barriers and discrimination
Throughout the years, women in the Commerce program faced segregation and discrimination, even from their own families. Marion Huber, a member of the Women’s Commerce Club, dealt with criticism from her own father, who claimed that she was only there to party and go to prom, despite receiving first class Honours. A card she received from her father said, “you just go to college to learn how to pet, no knowledge has entered your pretty head yet, but parties and proms and dates with the crew is all that the college offers to you”.
During World War II, women were let in the Commerce Club for a brief time due to boost the club’s membership. However, at the conclusion of World War II, the Commerce Club once again became male-exclusive, causing the Women’s Commerce Club to make a comeback.
1957: Commerce Club door opens for women
During the 1950s, the Commerce Club’s main concern was the permittance of women in its membership. In 1951, votes were cast on whether women should be allowed to join the club, and at the time, the 35 to 35 votes for either side did not meet the necessary two-thirds majority.
It was not until 1957 that women were finally allowed to join the Commerce Club, thus concluding the era of the Women’s Commerce Club. After decades of fighting for equality, women students had finally earned the right to be treated as equals.
The start of RCWIB
As diversity grew in Canada and in the business world, student groups formed to reflect these communities. In 2010, the Rotman Commerce Women in Business (RCWIB) club was founded by Jordana Greenberg (BCom ‘10) in order to support the personal and professional development of young women interested in business through mentoring, skill building, and networking events. One of their biggest events is the Women’s Leadership Symposium, featuring a wide variety of women in different industries.
Isabel Shin (BCom ‘25), current Vice President of RCWIB, shares that her favourite part about RCWIB is the positive impact their events have on young women in business.
Isabel Shin, BCom ‘25“Whenever we host an event and I take a step back to observe, it amazes me how many connections and meaningful conversations are being made; whether this is between students, working professionals, or with our team members. I love hearing from fellow students how helpful and great our events are, especially after working so hard with my team to curate these experiences for young women.”
RCWIB strives to inspire and empower a new generation of women in RC, providing them with experiences to network with accomplished leaders, showing them countless possibilities of their future. In creating these connections, students become more knowledgeable, learn to lead with confidence and create a support system amongst one another. Sonia Singh (BCom ’25), President of RCWIB, says that “our executive team is always ready to offer mentorship, encouragement, and guidance to those looking for it”.
The advancement of representation
For the first time in history, Rotman Commerce has two female deans, Susan Christoffersen, Dean of the Rotman School of Management and Melanie Woodin, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science, demonstrating the development of women in leadership positions. This historical achievement is a testament to the perseverance of women, who have overcome discrimination and boundaries in order to reshape society’s views on women, while carving the path forward for future generations.
In order to continue the progression of diversity, inclusion, and equality in society, it is important to take your own steps outside of your comfort zone. As Isabel advises, “you should always be actively searching for more experiences, making connections with your peers and bosses, and putting yourself out there. This is the only way that people will know to give you opportunities and the only way that you will be the first to come to mind when it comes to promotions. We no longer need to sit in silence and wait to be noticed, we should be the ones speaking up and advocating for ourselves”.
By Anika Kulathu (BCom ’27) | November 1, 2024
