Remembering Adade, Historian of Women: : Adade Mitchell Wheeler

Adade Mitchell Wheeler was a professor at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois from 1967 until her death in 1982. She was one of Illinois's most highly respected feminists and women's rights advocates. From her work with the League of Women Voters in the 1950s to initiating the Women's Studies Program at the College of DuPage, she was a tireless supporter of women, urging attention to their problems and recognition of their role in history. She was active with the Chicago Area Women's History Council, numerous other history and women's organizations, and attended national and international conferences on women's rights and issues. Wheeler co-wrote, with Marlene Stein Wortman, The Roads They Made: Women in Illinois History, which was honored by the Illinois State Historical Society. Author Lynda Hoornbeek spent years researching the professional life of this notable woman, and has included many documents which help readers to understand the challenges advocates for women were facing during this second wave of feminism. The College of DuPage makes an annual award in Adade Wheeler's name. Lynda C. Hoornbeek's book on the life of Adade Mitchell Wheeler provides a new generation with the story of a true pioneer. This outstanding work chronicles the life of a woman who broke the mold at a time when it was very difficult. Wheeler taught history at College of DuPage for 15 years, but she also advocated for women around the world. ----William Benton Whisenhunt, Professor of History, College of DuPage Remembering Adade, Historian of Women honors Adade Wheeler, a College of DuPage professor and one of Illinois' most highly respected feminists and women's rights advocates. Information about Adade Wheeler is scarce, and Lynda Hoornbeek spent years searching out and perusing primary source documents to reveal the courage and commitment of this remarkable woman. Hoornbeek's scholarship ensures that Adade Wheeler and her inspirational legacy will be remembered and honored. ----Peggy Connolly, College of DuPage Board President 1989-1995, Adade Wheeler Award Recipient 1996 This book is fascinating and represents Adade's contribution to the arc of that history that spans the middle 20th Century from her work in the 1950s with the League of Women Voters in Glen Ellyn to her interest in women's rights in the '60s, '70s and '80s. It is important to capture stories of those like Adade who have gone before us. ----Mary H. Schaafsma, Executive Director, League of Women Voters of Illinois