Alumna to lead American Philosophical Society

Mary Patterson McPherson, AS ’60M, who served as president of Bryn Mawr College from 1978-1997, has been named executive director of the American Philosophical Society (APS).

“Her philosophy, her experience and her dedication will certainly continue the society’s tradition and strengthen its mission,” APS President Baruch S. Blumberg said in announcing the appointment.

McPherson, who is known for her commitment to liberal arts and higher education for women, was awarded the University of Delaware Medal of Distinction in 1984 and became a member of its Wall of Fame in 1991.

As the sixth president of Bryn Mawr, McPherson led the college through a period of growth in the number and diversity of its students. Joining the Bryn Mawr faculty in 1961, she served in several positions before becoming president, and she also received her doctorate there.

After leaving Bryn Mawr, McPherson served from 1997-2007 as vice president and as program officer for the liberal arts colleges program of the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, an influential philanthropic supporter of higher education.

McPherson holds numerous honorary degrees and has served on a variety of boards of organizations and schools. She was elected a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1993.

Elected to APS in 1983, McPherson has been an active member, working on many committees and for its fundraising program and serving as a vice president for six years.

Founded in 1745 by Benjamin Franklin and others, APS is one of the oldest learned societies in the United States, promoting knowledge in the sciences and humanities through scholarly research.