Pearl Wanamaker at library dedication, December 7, 1966.

Introduction

Pearl Anderson Wanamaker (1899-1984) was an educator and public official who served in a variety of capacities over her years of service. Her dedication to public education in Washington state was demonstrated by her work as a Senator, House Representative, and Superintendent in pushing for funding equalization to public schools, the repeal of laws that prevented the expansion of junior colleges, and the creation of the community college system under the school districts, among other innovations and improvements. The opportunity to open a community college in Tacoma was a direct result of these efforts. Because of her sustained advocacy for public education in Washington state, Wanamaker was selected as the namesake for Tacoma Community College's library and resource center in the early construction of the campus, and was present at its dedication in 1966.