INTERVIEW

60 Seconds with Josie Harper In July the former women's lacrosse coach and senior associate athletic director became the first woman to be named an athletic director in the Ivy League. We checked in with her shortly after she'd settled into her new office in Alumni Gym.

What has changed for Dartmouth since you took the job? The perception that Dartmouth is afraid to be the first. Many times we're seen as a terrific follower but not necessarily groundbreaking. I think [my appointment] is groundbreaking, and many think it's a fabulous thing.

Have you heard much grumbling about a woman getting the job? Well, those folks are probably people who haven't met me.

What is Dartmouth athletics' greatest asset? The caliber of student-athlete that we recruit, our coaches and the incredible loyalty of the alums.

What's your No. i priority? That we be seen as a core part of the mission of the College. The mission of this college is to provide an outstanding education. The out-of-classroom experience enhances the educational experience. But until we're appreciated as central to the core, people may view athletics as more of a drain on resources rather than as an asset.

Some alumni bemoan the state of Dartmouth athletic facilities. How do you respond? We have to be appreciative of what has happened the last four years: the golf course renovation, the tennis center, the new turf field and renovation of Lever one Field House. But we're still making up for lost time, when we didn't do a lot with facilities while other schools did. Prospective students today base their choices in part on the extras. They may say this place is okay academically: "Cool, I love it." But they also ask, "What else do you have to offer me?"

Have you lost any sleep at night since you became atHletic director? Yes, when I've had to say no to a coach's request because we don't have the resources. As a former coach I have a great feeling for their needs and the job they're expected to do.

Got any football predictions for this season? I think we're going to surprise some people. I think we're on our way back.