Q&A: Get to Know President Grace Wang
WPI's 17th president reveals what attracted her to the position, what's surprised her so far, and how she relaxes.
Read StoryIn each issue of the Journal we introduce you to members of the faculty through items they have in their offices.
1. Borgen DVD Set
Borgen is a drama from Denmark about a woman who unexpectedly becomes prime minister. My dissertation compared immigration and integration in Scandinavian countries—this series, and travel there, showed me more about the countries and the people.
2. Plant
My partner gave me this little fake plant. These never die, sort of like love. The vase these are in came from a trip we took through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, and it reminds me of that time.
Crystal Brown
3. Plaque
When I came to WPI in 2019, I had to decorate my office, and this spoke to me. I try to truly inspire my students.
4. Sisters
This photo is of me and two of my older sisters (I am one of eight and also a twin) at my brother’s wedding in 2021. We are being goofy, and it was the first time my family got together since the beginning of the pandemic.
5. Doll
I got this doll in South Korea during my first trip to Southeast Asia. I love Korean culture. I grew up in the most diverse neighborhood in Chicago—eating kimchi and Korean food at friends’ houses and even watching Korean soap operas. It’s part of who I am.
6. Illustration
This is Gurko Street in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. Bulgaria had a significant impact on me—this was a beautiful old cobblestone street with restaurants and shops that I would go to all the time.
7. Bulgarian Paddle
I spent three and a half years in the Peace Corps in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, and this is one item I brought back. Bulgaria changed my world view. I taught English to college students there and that experience inspired me to become a college professor.
