A review of recent studies and a 1990 mail survey of the heads of State corrections agencies and affiliates and committees of the American Correctional Association (ACA) revealed that women have also led efforts at correctional reform. Beginning in the mid-1800's, they also chaired and served on boards and citizen committees overseeing correctional agencies. After gaining the right to vote and hold office in 1920, women made and administered legislation and served as citizen volunteers. They also provided administrative and clerical support; had leadership roles in forming and developing ACA and other professional organizations; and worked in nontraditional roles and settings as corrections administrators, professionals, and specialists. In 1990, women made up about 28 percent of the ACA membership. In the future, they will continue to make significant contributions to corrections. Photographs and 19 references