RADCLIFFE LEADERSHIP (1879-1999)

A committee of "seven ladies," which included Elizabeth Cary Agassiz and Alice Mary Longfellow, advertised "Private Collegiate Instruction for Women" in 1879, responding to the need for advanced educational opportunities for female students. This "experiment," known familiarly as the Harvard Annex, became a chartered Institution, Radcliffe College, in 1894.

Seven presidents have since served the institution, averaging tenures of 17 years. Linda S. Wilson announced her intention to resign in June. Harvard and Radcliffe officials announced jointly that a new Radcliffe Institute will be led by a dean who reports to the University president.