Affirm Quote by Drew Gilpin Faust
“I think that issues of gender have been discussed widely at Harvard. But I think I was chosen clearly on the merits, and I wish to operate as president on the merits. I think, on one level, we might say that I can affirm that women have the aptitude to do science or to do anything, including being president of Harvard.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Harvard Presidential Address, 2015
She emphasizes merit-based selection and affirms women's capability in all fields, including leadership.
In simple terms: Merit matters; women can lead.
Key Takeaway
Promote meritocracy and gender equality.
Themes
leadership
gender equality
meritocracy
Mood
confident
assertive
Type
inspirational
leadership
When to use this quote
- University governance
- career advancement
- public speaking
Key Concepts
affirmation
confidence
inclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions ensure true meritocracy?
- What steps support gender equity beyond statements?
A Different Perspective
Merit alone may not address systemic biases.
