Rodin enjoys her first weeks in office

Spending almost 14 hours a day at work, doing everything from discussing federal research funding to obtaining her PENNCard, President Judith Rodin had a very busy first week. And although she says her schedule is "extremely hectic," Rodin says she is loving every minute of it. "It was really wonderful," Rodin said of her first week in office. "I didn't think I could feel more enthusiastic about taking on this position than I did during the transition but after the first week I do." During her first week, Rodin tackled such issues as research funding, appropriations from the federal and state governments and higher education strategies. In addition, she placed calls to other local university and college presidents to introduce herself, met several times with Provost Stanley Chodorow, and had meetings with several faculty and administrative groups. She even made time to get her picture taken for her PENNCard, and apply for a Network ID to the University's Internet connection. "It's been a real combination of reading and meeting and thinking and trying to get to know people on campus as well," Rodin said. "It was a very satisfying week in which I feel we got a lot accomplished." Those who work with Rodin have nothing but kind words for their new boss. "She's very dynamic and inspiring," said Deputy to the President Jean Morse. "She's a real leader, [and] she's wonderful to work with." Executive Director of the Office of the President Linda Hyatt agreed. "I have found her to be direct, decisive, extremely rational and thoughtful in her decision making -- certainly everything I could have hoped for in Penn's new president," she said. "She's warm, engaging, direct [and] anxious to add to the already considerable knowledge she has about the University." Besides her work in the president's office, Rodin is also busy with moving into a new residence. But since the Eisenlohr mansion is being renovated, Rodin does not expect to move in until October or November. Until then, she is searching for temporary housing in West Philadelphia or Center City, she said. But she still needs to unpack several boxes -- and return home to New Haven, Conn. to get her dog, a Golden Retriever.