For her contributions to molecular biology, for her leadership in university education and for her influential efforts to champion women in science and engineering.
Shirley Tilghman is a renowned molecular biologist and academic administrator. As a professor and scientist, she played a role in the first successful cloning of a mammalian gene and made important discoveries in the field of embryonic development. In 2001, she was named president of Princeton University and led the school with distinction for over a decade. Throughout her tenure, she was a catalyst for the advancement of women leaders in post-secondary institutions across North America. She has also been a mentor to a number of Canadian university presidents and serves as co-chair of the Canada Excellence Research Chairs program.