While many students have had the opportunity to hear University President Amy Gutmann address a large crowd from behind a podium, far fewer have had the privilege of speaking with her in an intimate setting.
In a continuing personal effort to be accessible to students, Gutmann sat down with a group of freshman women last night as part of the Women in Leadership Series' annual Freshman Women's Dinner.
Gutmann told the approximately 40 freshmen that, while she faced difficulties as a woman in her career, she never let this get in the way of pursuing her goals.
She advised freshmen to go beyond self-interest and work for "social justice -- making the world better."
"When I say that, I mean that very broadly. Being a great business leader, a great politician ... or lawyer, doctor, accountant or a great mother. All of those things require a kind of belief in yourself," Gutmann added.
Attendees said Gutmann's anecdotes and advice were moving.
"I thought it was very inspirational," College freshman Grace Schaefer said. "She seemed very in touch with the students and the female population."
Others were impressed with Gutmann's efforts to reach out to the student body.
"I just really appreciated the fact that she did come here in a small group," College freshman Yewleh Chee said. "She's ... a figurehead almost, and for her to come here means a lot -- that she really cares about helping the students."
Chee said she gained valuable pieces of advice from Gutmann, like, "When people say, "Oh, you got this job because you're a woman,' don't let that get you down -- just persevere. As a freshman coming here, it's really overwhelming. ... Just don't try to do everything. Find something you really love and work at it and try to help other people."
Organizers said they were pleased that Gutmann was able to headline the event.
"Having Dr. Amy Gutmann come is just amazing," WILS member and College sophomore Veronique Valcu said. "Most students don't have the opportunity to actually have a conversation with her."
While Gutmann was the featured speaker, freshmen were also able to interact with female leaders involved in a variety of clubs and organizations on campus.
Bucks County Coffee Co. catered the event, which was held in the MBA Social Lounge of Huntsman Hall.
