Female Faces of Philanthropy: Dr. Helen Schaefer

Dr. Helen Schaefer is a founding Board member of WFSA, and has been an advocate for women and girls in Tucson for 45 years.

Helen received her B.S. in chemistry from the University of Michigan and her M.S. from the University of Illinois. While pursuing her Ph.D. she married John Schaefer, and suspended her doctoral studies to raise two daughters, Susan Kliman and Ann Schaefer-Reid. Later, while raising a family and volunteering for numerous community organizations, Helen was able to complete her PhD in chemistry at Illinois in 1978.

Helen taught chemistry for several years at the University of Arizona in the 1960's. More recently, she has developed a well-deserved reputation as a community activist and volunteer extraordinaire. In addition to the Women's Foundation of Southern Arizona, she has served on the boards of the Pima Council on Aging, YMCA, YWCA, several UA Advisory Committees, and the Tucson Symphony. She enjoys singing with the University-Community Chorus, walking, needlepoint, reading, arts and athletics.

We are pleased to recognize Helen's work on behalf of women and girls, and her numerous activities to improve the quality of life in Tucson, at our 12th annual luncheon on April 13, 2005.