From the Editor: Wonder Women

Debora Spar, the president of Barnard College, visited Princeton in March to discuss her recent book, Wonder Women: Sex, Power, and the Quest for Perfection, the latest entry in a public discussion — kicked off in 2012 by former Woodrow Wilson School Dean Anne-Marie Slaughter ’80 — about whether high-achieving women ever can “have it all.” Spar touched on the importance of mentorship in women’s careers, and noted that in environments where people are accustomed to mentoring those who look and act like them, too few women benefit. 

One who did was Amy Cuddy *05, the subject of our cover story (page 22). Cuddy, a social psychologist, Harvard Business School professor, and expert on power dynamics, has drawn international attention for her research on how women — and men — can increase their self-confidence and influence. But before that, she was a graduate student at Princeton, having doubts about her own abilities.

Susan Fiske

Courtesy Susan Fiske

That’s where Susan Fiske comes in. Fiske, a psychology professor, is renowned for her work on stereotyping and social interactions. She involved Cuddy in her groundbreaking research, and pushed her to succeed when the student feared she would fail. As Cuddy progressed, her mentor became collaborator and colleague. You might have a Princeton mentor of your own; if you do, we’d like to hear about him or her.

Graduate alumni in particular often speak about the guidance — which can continue for years, or a lifetime — they receive from Princeton mentors such as Fiske. It’s a contribution to “Wonder Woman” (or “Wonder Man”) that too often goes unnoticed.