About the Center
Launched in 2017, the Center for the Advancement of Women at Mount Saint Mary’s University is recognized for its research, advocacy and leadership development. Each year, it reaches more than 50,000 leaders across Southern California who are dedicated to advancing women and girls.
The Center’s work carries forward almost a century of Mount Saint Mary's’ history as the only women's university in Los Angeles and the oldest accredited women's leadership program in the western United States. The Center also offers sponsor opportunities with like-minded research organizations and corporations.
The Center focuses on three key areas of work
/filters:format(webp)/prod01/channel_18/media/website/learning-amp-research-communities/center-for-the-advancement-of-women/women-hashtag-split.jpg)
Research
Our ongoing reporting examines a range of issues across key sectors and promotes targeted solutions. We provide all publications to the public for free.
/filters:format(webp)/prod01/channel_18/media/website/learning-amp-research-communities/center-for-the-advancement-of-women/women-split.jpg)
Advocacy
Driven by the publications and presentations of the Center’s director, our nationally recognized work offers far-reaching ways to empower advocates on a national and local level.
/filters:format(webp)/prod01/channel_18/media/website/learning-amp-research-communities/center-for-the-advancement-of-women/events-split.jpg)
Leadership development
The Center hosts two annual signature events, as well as a Legislator in Residence series. These gatherings enable women and men to network and learn from thoughtful leaders.
Meet the Director
Dr. Breann Branch, PhD
Dr. Breann Branch (she/her) is an educator, researcher, and equity leader with over twelve years of experience across higher education, nonprofits, government, and consulting. A Los Angeles native and LAUSD graduate, she earned her bachelor’s degree magna cum laude from Howard University, a master’s degree in Organizational Development Psychology from Avila University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She serves as Director of the Center for the Advancement of Women at Mount Saint Mary’s University, leading statewide efforts to advance gender equity. Her research focuses on inclusive innovation, patenting, and equitable access to technology ecosystems.