When she assumed her post in August 1998, Dr. Rita Colwell became the Foundation's first female director. She is a nationally respected scientist and educator. Before she became NSF director, Dr. Colwell was president of the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute and professor of microbiology at the University of Maryland where she produced the award-winning film, Invisible Seas. While at the University of Maryland, Dr. Colwell also served as director of the Sea Grant College and as vice president for academic affairs.

Photo by: Sam Kittner