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This paper summarizes the efforts of the Department of Health, Education and Welfare (DHEW) to provide women with the opportunity and encouragement to excel through education. Data are given about employment patterns of women in science and engineering. Traditional barriers thought to restrict participation of women in science and engineering are identified. (SL)

The purpose of federal support for the general educational goals of higher education is examined in this testimony. Such support for higher education currently amounts to $3.4 billion, exclusive of research and veterans educational benefits under the GI bill. Two roles are identified for federal support of higher education: (1) the role of increasing access to postsecondary education by concentrating resources on direct financial aid to students on the basis of need; and (2) the role of encouraging a diversity of educational programs that will be responsive to the particular educational needs of citizens. The Administration's view is reaffirmed that the best way to achieve these goals is through student aid rather than general financial support for institutions. It is suggested that the major part of federal budget resources should be devoted to student grants rather than student earnings subsidies and student loans. The Basic Grant program should be the foundation of higher education legislation, which would permit a maximum grant of $1400 for all classes of students. Suggestions are offered for perfecting the access role of this program. Coordination of federal and state programs is also recommended. (LBH)

This speech focuses on the future of women in leadership and decisionmaking positions in education. Since 1970 there has been a legislative explosion as Congress has recognized the necessity to end sex discrimination on the campus. Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in all federally-assisted education programs. The second great breakthrough favoring the goal of sex equality is the opening of the doors of higher education to women. One of the greatest challenges is to convince women themselves that they can go beyond the role stereotype that was formed in them virtually since birth. Certainly the employment of increased numbers of women faculty members and administrators at high levels would have a considerable impact on lessening discriminatory practices. Such a policy would give men and women students role-models of successful and respected academic women. The tasks of teaching, reorientation, and facilitation are the primary tasks of women and will remain so until the goals of liberation have become interwoven into the fabric of social consciousness. (Author/PG)