Trailblazing Leadership in Turkey: Gülsün Sağlamer

In this three-part special series, dotEDU Global Voices, hosts Sarah Spreitzer and Devorah Lieberman—senior advisor at ACE and president emerita of the University of La Verne—host three trailblazing women featured in Devorah’s book Spotlighting Female Leadership: Strategies, Stories, Perspectives. This insightful book highlights the journeys of ten women leaders from universities around the world, developed as part of her work with the IAUP Women’s Leadership Initiative.

In this episode, Gülsün Sağlamer, the first and only female rector in Istanbul Technical University’s 250-year history, shares how her leadership modernized the university—introducing English-language programs, revamping infrastructure, and cultivating alumni support. Gülsün also reflects on her innovative mentorship efforts, creating opportunities for the next generation of academic leaders.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how one woman reshaped higher education in Turkey. Subscribe now for future episodes featuring more extraordinary women leaders in higher education. 

This podcast series is in partnership with the ACE Women’s Network that connects and supports women in higher ed all across the country, helping them develop their leadership skills and advance in their careers.  

If you’re looking for a community that’s all about mentorship, growth, and supporting women, you can find more information at www.acenet.edu/womensnetwork  

Check out our regular dotEDU webpage for our regular policy-focused episodes. 

Links: 
Gülsün Sağlamer

International Association of University Presidents (IAUP)

Spotlighting Female Leadership: Strategies, Stories, Perspectives

ACE Women’s Network

dotEDU Podcast