Leadership, Leadership Quote of the Week

The Most Damaging Phrase In The Language

Grace Hopper

Dec 23, 2019

Nikol Chen

Design and Development Manager, Laidlaw Foundation

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"The most damaging phrase in the language is: "It's always been done that way'"

Grace Hopper (1906-1992) was an American mathematician and rear admiral in the U.S. Navy. She was a pioneer in developing computer technology, helping to devise the first commercial electronic computer. Prior to joining the Navy, Hopper earned a Ph.D. in mathematics from Yale University and was a professor of mathematics at Vassar College.

In 1991, she received the National Medal of Technology, and in 1994 she was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame. On November 22, 2016, she was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.

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Nikol Chen (She/Her)

Design and Development Manager, Laidlaw Foundation

Hello! I've been part of the Laidlaw Foundation for over 4 years, working on strengthening our global community and broadening our initiatives aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty, reducing inequality, and cultivating a new generation of leaders.

I'm currently completing a Masters in Anthropology & Professional Practice at UCL, delving into my passion for using ethnographic research and design thinkig to effect systemic change, particularly in the education sector. My journey in design has been diverse, beginning with graphic design, transitioning into UX/UI and service design, and now evolving into strategic design and innovation.

Originally from the vast steppes of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿, I pursued my undergraduate degree in Human Sciences at UCL. I'm an avid swimmer, an obsessive podcast listener, and a dancer with two left feet and a whole lot of spirit. Let's connect and chat—drop me a line and find me on LinkedIn! 💬👀