You are, in your words, a true believer in capitalism. Well, no surprise there: You’re CEO of Nasdaq, one of the world’s most important market-making and financial technology companies. You see capitalism as a system for efficiently unlocking potential, for empowering the individual and for building a better society.
But belief does not blind you to imperfection, to gaps between the theory of capitalism and its reality. You have made it your business—and Nasdaq’s—to close some of those gaps.
You and Nasdaq focus on systems that expand transparency and promote integrity. Your mission includes combatting financial crime. It also includes a groundbreaking initiative to promote diversity on corporate boards.
You prioritize fairness and equality of opportunity. You look to give a leg up to those with ideas that should be businesses.
You rose in 24 years from a Nasdaq internship to become one of the most influential women in finance worldwide. You lead the continuing transformation of Nasdaq into a global markets operator and a powerhouse provider of a wide range of market-related technologies.
Along the way, you have been an ardent advocate for women in finance. You promote a collaborative corporate culture. But, perhaps not incidentally for someone who sometimes has to go to the mat on Wall Street, you also have earned a black belt in taekwondo.
In recognition of your distinguished achievement in business and finance, Williams College is proud to honor you with its Bicentennial Medal.
September 10, 2022