The first women's college in the U.S., Mt. Holyoke College, was founded by Mary Lyon in 1837. Lyon's efforts were pioneering as they created opportunities for women to receive a higher education. Her vision emphasized academic rigor and empowered women to pursue knowledge and professional aspirations in a time when education for women was largely unaccepted. The college model set by Lyon influenced many similar institutions, ultimately contributing to the broader women's education movement in the U.S.