1915-

American mathematician who has encouraged other women to become mathematicians also. Earning a doctorate at the University of Chicago, Schafer specialized in abstract algebra and differential geometry. She taught at several universities and was the mathematics department head at Wellesley College. Schafer helped establish the Association for Women in Mathematics, serving as its second president. The organization created the Schafer Prize, which annually recognizes outstanding undergraduate female mathematics students. Schafer has received several awards for improving professional conditions for women mathematicians internationally.