UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Commission for Women has selected “Why So Slow? The Advancement of Women” by Virginia Valian as its annual read for 2016. The greater Penn State community is encouraged to participate in the reading event and to join in a University-wide discussion of the book at the CFW’s open meeting from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, in 404 Old Main.

Opening comments on the book will be provided by Penn State President Eric Barron, followed by a panel discussion of probing questions posed by Terri Vescio, Penn State professor of psychology and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies. Remote participation will be possible through Zoom videoconferencing.

Barron has described “Why So Slow?” as one of the most impactful books he has read on the subject of the advancement of women. Published more than 15 years ago, the book is still one of the best compilations of solidly designed research into the underrepresentation of women at high levels of professional achievement, and describes investigations exploring gender schemas and the disproportional accumulation of advantage. The book’s final chapter focuses on “remedies” that are still relevant for the negative professional consequences of gender schemas and to equalize men’s and women’s ability to accumulate advantage.

Electronic access to the text is available on a chapter-by-chapter basis without charge by clicking here, and complete copies can be purchased at major retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Questions regarding the event may be directed to CFW Education Committee member Daad Rizk at dar39@psu.edu.