Dr. Paulette Dillard: Leading women in academia and beyond
Dr. Paulette Dillard, the 18th president of Shaw University, is one of five finalists for the 2023 WRAL Voters' Choice Award for Woman of the Year. The honor is in recognition of her exceptional contributions in academic leadership and the medical field.
Through her diverse academic and professional journey, Dillard has demonstrated remarkable commitment to governance and community development at Shaw University, while also sharing invaluable advice for women aspiring to pursue leadership roles in academia.
Humble recognition and unexpected surprises
In an exclusive interview, Dillard expressed humility regarding her nomination, emphasizing a focus on the impact of her work rather than the recognition it receives. "You don't really think about being recognized. You think about the reason that you do what you do every day. What keeps me charged is what gets recognized and that is working with young people in a higher ed environment," she said. Dillard's dedication to her work with young people in academia reflects her deep-rooted passion for fostering positive change within the educational realm.
Overcoming challenges with persistence and intention
Dillard's professional background in medical technology and her leadership positions have significantly shaped her approach to governance and community development at Shaw University. Despite facing challenges related to gender and race, Dillard has remained resolute and persistent in overcoming these obstacles.
"I've always been committed to doing the very best job that I could do. I'm not one that shrinks away from a battle," Dillard said. Her unwavering perseverance has allowed her to navigate and triumph over the barriers encountered along her illustrious career path.
Empowering women in Leadership
Drawing from her own experiences, Dillard offered valuable advice to young women aspiring to make a difference in their communities and pursue careers in academic administration. She emphasized the importance of self-awareness, the willingness to take and give feedback, and the necessity of molding one's strengths to achieve personal goals. Dillard's advice serves as a guiding light for women seeking to carve their paths in academia and beyond.
Striving for inclusive leadership
In her role as the president of Shaw University, Dillard is committed to ensuring that the needs and concerns of all women, regardless of background, are considered in her decisions. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, "At Shaw University, I have to consider women, but I have to consider everyone. It's an individual thing and not to exclude or create barriers for anyone based on any differences."
The evolving landscape of women in leadership
Dillard also shared her insights on the evolving landscape of women in leadership roles within academia. She acknowledged the progress made in increasing the representation of women in academia, while also highlighting the need for further diversity and inclusion in supporting governance roles. Dillard stressed the importance of having more women not only in leadership positions but also in the various supporting roles, to create a more diverse and equitable academic ecosystem.
The nomination of Dillard for Woman of the Year serves as a testament to her influential leadership, unwavering perseverance and dedication to creating a more inclusive and diverse academic environment. Her advice and experiences offer inspiration and guidance for women seeking to embark on their own journeys in leadership, reflecting her commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
As the Shaw University community proudly supports Dillard in her nomination, her impact on academia and the medical field stands as a testament to her exemplary contributions and her voice as a beacon of inspiration for women in leadership roles remains unwavering.
