Women in Higher Education: A Discussion with Dr. Eun Mee Kim & Dr. Sian Leah Beilock
Mar 22, 2022
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Dr. Eun Mee Kim and Dr. Sian Leah Beilock, presidents of Ewha Womans University and Barnard College respectively, discuss women in higher education, strategies for women in math and science, the founding and leadership of their institutions, breaking stereotypes in math and science, reflections on adversity and role models, feminism and gender inequality in Korean society, and promoting diversity and inclusion for better outcomes.
The presence of women in leadership roles is crucial for inspiring future generations and debunking gender roles and stereotypes, leading to better outcomes for all.
Having mentors and sponsors, both men and women, is key for women's success in academia and beyond, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The Korean education system faces challenges in balancing academic rigor and fostering creativity and individuality, highlighting the need for improvement and innovation.
Deep dives
Founding of Ewah Women's University and Barnard College
Ewah Women's University was founded in 1886 by the Women's Foreign Missionary Society of the United Methodist Church to provide education and healthcare for women in Korea. Barnard College was established in the late 1800s as an opportunity for women who wanted an education at Columbia University. Both institutions have since become leaders in women's education and empowerment.
Role of Gender in Leadership Positions
Korea still faces challenges in achieving gender equality, with less than 10% of universities and only 19% of the Korean National Assembly being led by women. In the US, women make up only a quarter of tenured positions in academia. However, the presence of women in leadership roles is crucial for inspiring future generations and debunking gender roles and stereotypes. Encouraging diversity and providing equal opportunities for women in leadership positions leads to better outcomes for all.
Importance of Mentors and Sponsors
Having mentors and sponsors is key for women's success in academia and beyond. They provide support, guidance, and opportunities for growth. It's important to recognize that mentorship and sponsorship should come from both men and women, as diverse perspectives and experiences lead to better outcomes. Sponsors, in particular, advocate for individuals and help them advance in their careers, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Challenges in Korean Education System
The Korean education system is known for its high pressure and intense focus on academic achievement. While it has opened up educational opportunities and increased women's access to education, it also has its shortcomings. The system can be stifling, leading Korean parents to look for opportunities outside of it. Balancing academic rigor and fostering creativity and individuality is a challenge faced by many educational systems, including in the US.
Misguided Anger and Gender Equality in Korea
Korea is currently experiencing a significant debate around gender issues and equality. The young men in their 20s feel anger and frustration due to challenging economic conditions and misperceive that the gains made in improving gender equality are disadvantages for men. However, the gender gap in Korea is still substantial, and there is a long way to go to address inequalities in career opportunities, wages, and political representation. This misdirected anger highlights the importance of education and awareness to foster understanding and support true gender equality for the benefit of all.
March 22, 2022 - Womens’ Universities have emerged as premier institutions in higher education, amplifying womens’ voices from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. In the fourth installation of our Womens’ Leadership Series, please join us at The Korea Society to hear from Dr. Eun Mee Kim, President of Ewha Womans University in Seoul, and Dr. Sian Leah Beilock, President of Barnard College in New York City. They will share their experiences as presidents of two eminent women's colleges with long traditions in providing the highest-quality of liberal arts education, and they will also share their visions as thought leaders in new fields, new ideas and new technologies emerging in higher education in Korea and the U.S.
The conversation will be moderated by Ambassador Kathleen Stephens, former U.S. Ambassador to Korea and Korea Society Board Chair. Thomas Byrne, President and CEO of The Korea Society will deliver special welcoming remarks.
