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Women in Leadership
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Professor Alison Richard, the first female to hold the full time post of Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University, was this year’s speaker at The John Fry Memorial Lecture on Tuesday 19 February. Prof. Richard, herself an Old Queenswoodian, delivered an entertaining and authoritative talk on "Women in Leadership" to the Sixth Form, Old Queenswoodians, parents, governors and guests. She began her talk with a humorous account of her experience in 2003 whilst attending interview for the "top job" at Cambridge University having travelled from the USA where she had been Provost of Yale University.
A renowned anthropologist, Prof. Richard illustrated her talk from her extensive professional and personal interest, knowledge and experience of different cultures, particularly in Madagascar and India. She described women’s informal roles in society and the ways in which primitive women influence power and decision-making, drawing comparisons with Western societies.
Prof. Richard spoke of her enjoyment of her time at Queenswood and admitted she had developed an endless curiosity about people and communities. She advised the girls not to be overly concerned about plotting a "linear career path" but to take on leadership roles as they present themselves and to enjoy whatever they choose to do in life. We certainly enjoyed hearing Prof. Richard speak and look forward to having her visit us again if her busy schedule allows in the future.
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