Address to the First Graduating Class of Rutgers Female College

In his 1876 address to the first graduating class of Rutgers Female College Henry M. Pierce offers a profound and thoughtful speech emphasizing the importance of education for women in the late 19th century. He acknowledges the historical challenges women faced in obtaining higher education and stresses the significance of their intellectual and moral development. Pierce encourages the graduates to use their education not only for personal advancement but also for the betterment of society urging them to embrace their roles as responsible and influential members of both their families and communities. Pierce’s address reflects the changing views of women’s education during this period acknowledging their capabilities and advocating for the value of a liberal arts education. He emphasizes the potential for women to contribute meaningfully in a wide range of fields from science and literature to social reform. His speech serves as both a celebration of the graduates’ achievements and a call to action urging them to pursue lives of purpose integrity and intellectual curiosity. The address is a testament to the growing acceptance of women's educational equality during the era.