Clara M. Lovett, president emerita of Northern Arizona University, is receiving an award for her contributions to education and women.
The Arizona Women’s Education & Employment organization will present Lovett the 2008 Jeanne Lind Herberger Award during its 14th Faces of Success luncheon on Nov. 6 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix.
The award recognizes Lovett’s leadership in the organization, innovations in higher education and her ongoing contributions to women and community.
“Public education is in my heart and my head,” Lovett said. “It is the source of our national strength and the surest route for women to better themselves and take their rightful place as equal partners in the workplace.”
Lovett served as president of NAU From 1993 to 2000. During her tenure, the university became the leader in Arizona partnerships with community colleges and in distance learning.
Following her retirement from the NAU presidency, Lovett became president of the American Association for Higher Education. In that role, she advocated for expanded access to higher education, diversity in curriculum and staffing and effective use of technology in instruction and institutional operations.
“Clara is an extraordinary leader who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to empowering women and transforming their lives through affordable access to education and equal opportunity in the workplace,” said Marie Sullivan, AWEE president and chief executive officer.