[1] Spillar graduated magna cum laude from Texas Christian University (TCU) in three years with a degree in urban studies.

[3][1] After the bid to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment failed on June 30, 1982, Spillar became active in the feminist movement.

An expert in anti-abortion violence, Spillar created a system for defending abortion clinics in Los Angeles and Orange County, inspiring thousands of volunteers to escort women safely past protestors.

[4] And in the wake of the beating of motorist Rodney King, she worked to establish the National Center for Women and Policing.

[1] In 1992, under Spillar and Dolores Huerta's leadership, the Feminist Majority Foundation launched its Feminization of Power campaign, intended to inspire women to run for political office.