Jennifer S. Macleod of West Windsor was honored by the Alice Paul Institute for her many contributions to advancing women’s equality in New Jersey. She received the award at a gala reception and dinner at the Hyatt in Carnegie Center on April 13.
Macleod, a West Windsor resident since 1959, has been involved in women’s rights activities since 1969. A research psychologist, she serves as national coordinator of the ERA Campaign Network which continues to campaign for the addition of the Equal Rights Amendment to the United States Constitution. She also manages the website, www.ERACampaign.net, and edits the E-mail newsletter, “The ERA Campaigner.”
She was born in London, where her family owned the Selfridge’s Department Store. A graduate of Radcliffe College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, she earned her doctorate in research psychology from Columbia University. Her career includes positions in social psychology, management consulting, and promoting women’s equality.
Macleod co-founded and served as the first president of Central New Jersey’s National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1969. From 1969 to 1974 she was leader of the nationwide campaign to add the ERA to the Constitution.
“A 2002 survey revealed that 72 percent of Americans think our Constitution guarantees equal rights for women, and that’s wrong,” said Macleod in a recent interview with U.S. 1 Newspaper. “Gender equality is actually a glaring omission in our Constitution, and one with tremendous implications.”
