Harvard Expected To Name First Woman to Lead University

February 9, 2007

On Sunday, Dr. Drew Gilpin Faust is expected to be the first woman named to lead Harvard in the university's history. The National Organization for Women applauds and congratulates Harvard for choosing a woman with exceptional credentials, a proven leader who has dedicated her career to academia, and a role model for young women and girls everywhere.

"NOW is so pleased that Harvard will finally have a female president — and it has only taken them 371 years. Larry Summers, we couldn't have done it without you," said NOW President Kim Gandy. "Harvard is in need of bold leadership, a visionary with innovative ideas, and someone who can redefine a university still reeling from the bad taste left by Mr. Summers. Dr. Faust is the right person at the right time," said Gandy.

When announced, Dr. Faust will be Harvard University's 28th president. She will replace Larry Summers, who stepped down almost a year ago after his derogatory 2005 remarks about the "intrinsic aptitude" of women in math and science. Dr. Faust was a leading force in efforts to increase the number of female scientists at Harvard.

Dr. Faust has been dean of the Radcliffe Institute since 2001, a renowned historian, a professor, an author, a mother and wife, and she understands the challenges women face. Before coming to Radcliffe she was the director of the Women's Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania.

"Now more than ever, women are holding high positions," says Gandy. "With Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House and Dr. Drew Gilpin Faust as president of Harvard, women are truly making history," said Gandy.

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For Immediate Release
Contact: Latoya Veal w. 202-628-8669, ext. 116, c. 301-660-3447

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