Barbara Warne Newell was the first female chancellor of the State University System of Florida. She served in this capacity from 1981 to 1985. Newell is originally from Pennsylvania. She earned a bachelor's degree from Vassar College, and a master's degree and Doctorate in Economics from the University of Wisconsin. Prior to becoming chancellor, Newell served as President of Wellesley College from 1971 to 1980, and Associate Provost at the University of Pittsburgh. She is also the daughter of Colston Warne, after whom this annual lecture is named.