Sian Leah Beilock was recently named president of Barnard College, making her the eighth person to hold the position.
Beilock, who was previously executive vice provost of the University of Chicago, is a cognitive scientist by training. Her research has focused primarily on girls’ and women’s success in math and science, and on psychological strategies that can help people overcome performance anxiety and reach their potential.
“Her empathic concern for student success, and her experience bridging liberal-arts disciplines within an urban context, make her uniquely qualified to lead Barnard,” said Jolyne Caruso-FitzGerald ’81BC, chair of Barnard’s Board of Trustees, in announcing Beilock’s appointment.
Beilock says that Barnard’s position as a small women’s college associated with a major research university provides unparalleled opportunities for students. In a letter to the Barnard community, she wrote, “I cannot think of a more important time for Barnard to show the rest of the world that women’s intellectual power can drive nations, institutions, and communities.”
Beilock replaces Debora L. Spar, who left Barnard after nine years to become president of Lincoln Center.
