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Spotlight on Simmons

Simmons Alumna in Newsweek - "Women Are Strong Political Leaders"

Simmons College alumna Barbara Lee, a member of the class of 1967, was quoted in Newsweek Oct. 15 about the nation's increasing number of female governors. Lee, head of the Barbara Lee Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting women's participation at all levels of government, told Newsweek that the best way for people to believe in women as competent executives is "by actually watching them govern," she said. "They find them likable, strong and effective."

Lee also funds Simmons College's Barbara Lee Political Intern Fellowship Program, which provide stipends for up to 20 Simmons female undergraduate students each year to serve as interns for Massachusetts women legislators and statewide elected officials. In turn, these women will serve as mentors to the students and encourage them to envision themselves as future political leaders and policymakers.