Phyllis Schlafly
Phyllis Schlafly, a native St. Louisan and two-time Washington University graduate, has been a national leader of the conservative movement since the 1964 publication of her book, “A Choice Not An Echo.” With 3 million copies sold, it is listed as one of 10 best-selling conservative books of the past 50 years. Schlafly received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree in 2008.
A prolific writer, Schlafly is the author or editor of 20 books on subjects as varied as the judiciary, family and feminism, nuclear strategy, child care and education.
She earned a bachelor’s in political science in Arts & Sciences from Washington University in 1944; a master’s in political science from Harvard University in 1945; and a juris doctorate from Washington University School of Law in 1978.
Inspiring a movement through communication
Her monthly newsletter, The Phyllis Schlafly Report, is in its 41st year of publication. Her syndicated column, started in 1977, appears in 100 newspapers. Her radio commentaries are heard on 500 stations.
Her leadership in the conservative movement stems from her books, articles and speeches and her efforts as a motivator and organizer of grassroots activism.
In 1972, she started a national pro-family volunteer organization and led a successful 10-year battle against the Equal Rights Amendment. She continues as president of the group, now known as the Eagle Forum.
Named one of the 100 most important women of the 20th century by Ladies Home Journal and one of the 10 most admired women in the world by Good Housekeeping, she is a well-known advocate for the role of a full-time homemaker.