Dr Nancy Gleason, Professor of Practice in Political Science

Dr Nancy Gleason is a Professor of Practice in Political Science and Executive Director of the Hilary Ballon Center for Teaching and Learning at NYUAD. Dr Gleason regularly contributes to the public discourse on the future of work and education.

Her research addresses the dual disruptions of the AI revolution and the climate crisis.

For Dr Gleason, empowerment is about becoming stronger and claiming her rights.

“The great gift of the education I had the privilege to receive is entirely empowering. That, combined with unwavering support from my family for my career and professional choices has allowed me to do what I enjoy, regardless of roadblocks. And there are always roadblocks.”

While wonderful things happen when women come together to support each other, we should consider how men can accelerate action and best support our shared pursuit for equality. “Fostering women’s empowerment has to be done by women and men if we are to close equity gaps,” Dr Gleason said.

Dr Gleason also reasoned that while mentorship helps guide, advise, and support women in their professional growth and career advancement, sponsorship is even more important. “Both women and men can open doors, and in fact, hold the door open behind them!” It is important to make introductions, invite people to talks, add them to panels, and talk them up when they are not in the room.

Dr Gleason believes everyone should:

Encourage and advocate for women’s leadership opportunities, promotions, and career growth.
Mentor and sponsor women, not just at junior levels but also in leadership pipelines.
Speak up against stereotypes, discrimination, and microaggressions in the workplace.