Association for Women in Communications records, 1907-2016

The Association for Women In Communications (AWC) began as Theta Sigma Phi, a journalism honorary society. Theta Sigma Phi was established on April 8, 1909 by female students in the Journalism program at the University of Washington. The purpose of Theta Sigma Phi was to bring together women in journalism, honor women who distinguish themselves in journalism, and raise standards and improve working conditions for women in the profession. The society soon grew into a national organization with strong roots in the Seattle and Washington State, where chapter officers served as national officers until 1934.

In October 1972, the national society's name was officially changed to Women In Communications, Inc., which reflected its changing role as less honorary society and more professional organization; in 1996, the name again changed to Association for Women in Communications. Originally focused on print and broadcast journalism, the AWC's scope has expanded to other media of communication, including graphic design, photography, public relations, advertising, marketing, and online media. The AWC is also known for granting Clarion and Headliner awards to professionals across these varied disciplines.

The AWC Seattle Professional Chapter and Alumnae Chapter sponsored annual recognition events known as "Matrix Table" from 1931 to 1999, which honored "Women of Achievement" in the region. Similar Matrix Table events were held at other campus chapters of AWC as well. The funds raised through the Matrix Table were used for scholarships. After 1999, Matrix Table honors were replaced by Communicator of the Year awards. At present, the Seattle Professional Chapter awards several student scholarships annually, as well as the Georgina MacDougall Davis Founders Award, which was established in 1976.

Theta Sigma Phi also supported the Hospitalized Veterans Project, which began in the 1940's, through 1970.