Retrospective - An informal chat with the NSF Director

Dr. Franz Cordova discusses her journey to becoming the NSF Director, her achievements, challenges, and memorable experiences during her tenure. She reflects on the future of NSF and science, offers advice to young scientists, and shares her legacy and future plans. The conversation includes a word association game and insights into her personal aspirations.

What was Dr. Cordova's initial reaction to being considered for the NSF Director position?

• She was confused and hesitant.

• She was excited and expected it.

• She was uninterested and declined.

• She was surprised and honored.

What does Dr. Cordova consider her greatest achievement during her tenure at NSF?

• Increasing the NSF budget.

• Achieving scientific breakthroughs and management excellence.

• Expanding NSF's global presence.

• Developing new educational programs.

How did Dr. Cordova handle challenges during her time as NSF Director?

• By confronting them head-on with a diverse team.

• By avoiding them.

• By delegating them to others.

• By ignoring them.

What was Dr. Cordova's most memorable experience as NSF Director?

• Announcing the detection of gravitational waves.

• Receiving a prestigious award.

• Meeting the President.

• Visiting Antarctica.

What does Dr. Cordova find most rewarding about her job?

• Working with smart people to solve challenges.

• Traveling the world.

• Managing a large budget.

• Attending conferences.

How does Dr. Cordova view stress in her role?

• As a negative aspect.

• As a reason to quit.

• As a challenge to be managed.

• As something to be avoided.

What is Dr. Cordova's vision for the future of NSF?

• To reduce the number of funded projects.

• To limit international collaborations.

• To invest in high-risk, high-impact ideas.

• To focus solely on current projects.

What advice does Dr. Cordova give to young people interested in STEM?

• Embrace the adventure and challenges.

• Avoid taking risks.

• Focus only on the financial benefits.

• Stick to traditional career paths.

What was the best advice Dr. Cordova received from her mother?

• To avoid taking leadership roles.

• To focus solely on personal achievements.

• To prioritize financial success.

• To engage in activities that benefit others.

What legacy does Dr. Cordova hope to leave at NSF?

• A legacy of avoiding challenges.

• A legacy of meeting challenges fearlessly.

• A legacy of focusing on short-term goals.

• A legacy of reducing NSF's scope.