Drew Gilpin Faust, Harvard University’s first female president, was inaugurated Friday and offered a spirited defense of American higher education against demands that it quantify what it is teaching and focus primarily on training a global work force.-- New York Times, 10.13.07 (picture from NYTimes)

Okay, can I just say how much I LOVE THIS WOMAN! I am so impressed with her comments at her inauguration. Check out the New York Times interview and article for a summary, if you don't feel like reading the whole, beautifully written speech.

She is a new Shero for me, even if she is a private-school kind of woman (as opposed to my public school background and professional affiliations). Gilpin Faust supports education for the purposes of growth and development, not just for workforce preparedness, and access to education for all people.

--picture from the Boston Globe (click for story)

Drew Gilpin Faust just seems very real as well. I like her little-to-no-makeup style, her capability, and her strength. I know she grew up rich, but she also grew up outspoken, concerned about issues of race and racism, and interested in women's issues. I hope to meet her someday. With any luck, she will be as impressive in person as she is on paper.

Hurray for women in leadership positions!