We mourn the passing and celebrate the life of our dear mentor, former colleague, and friend Jean Gould Bryant. Jean joined the FSU History Department in 1972. A leader and trailblazer, she became an inspiration to aspiring young women who dreamed of a career in academia. Jean introduced the first Women’s History courses at FSU, and was instrumental in the creation and development of what is now the University’s interdisciplinary Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program. Jean served as the passionate and steadfast director of the Women’s Studies Program from 1972 until her retirement in 2001. Professor Bryant worked tirelessly to advance women’s rights, empower women, and light a path for the careers of many. Her contributions are undeniably part of the foundation of FSU’s meteoric transformation into a University renowned worldwide as a premier institution of higher learning. We remember Jean as a loyal friend and colleague, a consummate teacher and mentor, and a sweet and gentle soul.
--A tribute by Dr. Maxine Jones, Professor of History