Leadership Lessons from Dr. Klawe

Rather than spend time discussing the controversy over at the Masters golf tournament (which Robin Schooling covers pretty well at her blog, HR Schoolhouse) or the ongoing controversy over at Facebook over their lack of diversity on their Board of Directors (or the revelation that it's COO, Sherly Sandberg, leaves work at a reasonable time everyday from work), I thought I'd write about a female leader you may have never heard of--Doctor Maria Klawe.

As discussed in a recent New York Time's article (Giving Women the Access Code) Dr. Klawe demonstrates through her role as President of Harvey Mudd College several leadership qualities and accomplishments of note. 

For example,

• During her 5+ year tenure she's achieved near gender parity between the percentage of women on campus (close to 50%) to women graduating with degrees in computer science (40%). This is a stark contrast to national trends--according to a report issued by the Computing Research Association  roughly 12% of computer science graduates in 2010-2011 were female.
• She makes it a point to memorize the names of all the incoming freshman to Harvey Mudd College. She's also able to address most students she encounters on campus by their 1st name.
• She's a habitual recruiter for the college and it's paying off: Harvey Mudd College ("The Most Amazing School You've Never Heard Of") now accepts just 17% of applicants. 
• She's one of 2 women on Microsoft's 10 member Board of Directors.
• She often wears jeans to work. And rides a skateboard.

Photo courtesy of The Mary Sue

Through intelligence, perseverance, and vision, Dr. Klawe was able to overcome numerous obstacles, as well as create an exceptional educational environment for others to thrive in. Her story is a breath of fresh air, one that leaders in any industry should take note of and emulate.