Mission Established in 1995, the Women Center's overall mission is rooted in the fundamental mission of St. Vincent de Paul, founder of the Congregation of the Mission, the Vincentian community that established and sponsored DePaul University. The salient characteristics of DePaul are Catholic, Vincentian, and urban. As a Women's Center, we interpret and accomplish this mission by bringing about an awareness of women's issues. Established to provide a physically and psychologically supportive environment for women - students, staff, faculty, and administrators - the Women's center provides: Advocacy Conferences Discussion and support groups Education Programming Seminars Services and referrals Proactively working towards an open and diverse environment, we recognize that gender, race, class, nationality, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, among other factors, shape issues that must be addressed before such an environment can exist. With programming designed to enhance and promote the development and creativity of women, the Women's Center is a catalyst for positive social change where women can express their needs and concerns, discuss their interests, and network with their peers.