Trudy j hanmer biography

Trudy J. Hanmer is the associate head emeriti at Emma Willard School. She just released her book &#;Wrought with Steadfast Will: A History of Emma Willard School,&#; which shows the history of the school through the eyes of students and teachers. It is available for purchase at local bookstores, including Market Block Books, or online at

. Q What does the release of this book mean to you? A This book is the culmination of a determination for more than 30 years to write the history of Emma Willard School &#; because I believe it plays such a significant role in the history of the United States and the role that women have played since the early s. Q What is the most interesting thing that you found out while researching for the book? A I think I was most interested in finding out that even in the 19th century Emma Willard School was not connected to any single denomination, and admitted a diverse student body. Although it does not seem startling now, it was incredibly unusual that the school admitted Roman Catholic and Jewish girls before the Civil War. Q What experience are the most looking forward to? A I am very excited to have the opportunity to take the book around the country and meet with alumnae groups. I am also looking forward to hearing how people respond to the book. Q How long did it take you to fully complete this book? A As I mentioned above, I have wanted to write this book for over 30 years, and whenever I had a chance, I spent time in the archives. I have spent the past four years devoting myself to the research and writing that &#;Wrought With Steadfast Will&#; represents. Q Who do you think would best play Emma Willard in a movie? A It seems only logical to have Jane Fonda, a graduate of the school and superb actress, play Emma Willard. However, after seeing Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, I have to say that she would also be a good Emma Hart Willard. Of course, Emma Willard in her younger years might need to be played by someone else. I&#;d leave that choice up to my students &#; who are far more familiar with younger actresses than I am.