Black And Female - Woman Makes Double History As New Dean Of Harvard's School of Public Health

by The Harvard Crimson| Education

 

* Prof. Michelle A. Williams makes double history as first black
person to head a faculty at Harvard and also first female.
"I am aware of the impact Harvard can have in education,
research, and discovery", she says. (Credit: THC)

A New Dean is set to lead Harvards School of Public Health from July, 2016, the Harvard Crimson reports.

Michelle A. Williams, an epidemiologist and professor at the School of Public Health, Harvard will lead the school as its next dean beginning in July, 2016.

She make history as the first black person to head a faculty at Harvard and the first female dean of the school.

David J. Hunter, interim Dean of the School who took over a year ago, will hand over to Professor Williams in July.

Harvard's school of Public Health was in the news last in 2014 when billionaire philanthropist and old boy, Gerald L. Chan donated $350 million endowment to the school.

* University President Drew G. Faust welcomes Gerald L. Chan on stage at the unveiling of his foundation’s $350 million
 gift to Harvard's School of Public Health in September 2014.
(Credit: Crimson). 

Speaking about her appointment, University President Drew G. Faust said: “She is a skilled builder of bridges—between the theoretical and the practical, the domestic and the international, the different disciplines that drive the School’s academic endeavours, and the different communities that shape its identity and aspirations.”

And she expressed confidence in her saying: “I know she will approach her new role with the intelligence, dedication, integrity, and humane spirit that she brings to all she does.”

On her part, the new appointee said in a statement: “As an alumna and faculty member, I have witnessed the transformative impact that this institution can have in education, research, and discovery related to the health of communities in need,” adding “We have an imperative to lead and to serve, and I am looking forward to working even more closely with the School’s faculty, students, staff, and alumni to build on the School’s achievements.”