Fungi and Feminism: Overlooked Women in Science and the Legacy of Mary Banning

Explore how the field of fungi became a rare space for women in science during a time when their contributions were often overlooked.

Ashley Hopkins-Benton, Senior Historian and Curator of Social History, discusses the challenges women faced in the 19th century and the fight for women’s rights during Mary Banning's lifetime. She also provides historical context to the barriers women overcame to pursue careers in science despite being marginalized by institutions.

Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology takes a closer look into the life and work of Mary Banning, the "outcast" scientist whose contributions to mycology were dismissed during her lifetime. She also highlights Banning’s incredible achievements and discusses how Banning’s work, while overlooked in her time, now serves as inspiration to women in the sciences.