“The State of Conscience in University Life Today” James E. McLeod Memorial Lecture on Higher Education

There have been many “firsts” in Ruth Simmons’ life, chief among them being the first African-American president of an Ivy League university. Hers was an extraordinary transformation, which began as the 12th child of sharecroppers, and it was one fueled solely by education. The scholar and academic leader has been dedicated to expanding access to higher education and extolling the value of a liberal arts education, two overarching goals that reflect the philosophy of the late, beloved WUSTL teacher and administrator, Jim McLeod. Co-sponsors: The Center for the Humanities and the College of Arts & Sciences (More on Jim McLeod: http://pages.wustl.edu/figure/archives/october-2011)