Ruth L. Kirschstein (1926–2009)

The leadership, political skills, and commitment of the first woman director at the U.S. National Institutes of Health are unrivaled. In a discussion about the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) several years ago, Ruth Kirschstein commented, “I love it.” And it showed. She served with distinction in countless positions and her imprint is evident in virtually all NIH policies and practices. With her passing last month from cancer, the world has lost a creative and dedicated public servant.