UA alumna and Brigadier General N. Lee S. Price became the first female to run a program executive office.

Price said her new position as program executive officer means she will be working to provide software applications, computers and communications for the Army.

“”We all know how to operate our cell phones in the urban environment in which we live, but trying to provide that equivalent on the battlefield is a highly technical, intricate challenge,”” Price said.

Price earned her master’s degree in management information systems at the UA.

“”Attending the University of Arizona was a wonderful experience with a world-class faculty and highly intellectual and energetic students,”” Price said. “”The curriculum focused on group projects, which were a perfect fit for me since every soldier is first and foremost a team member.””

After being in the Army for 12 years, Price got a UA master’s degree free of charge.

“”I was an early geek, having operated as a computer operator back in the late ‘70s. The Army needed systems engineers and especially those who understood computers,”” she said.

Price found inspiration through her instructors at the UA. Price said her master’s advisor Doug Vogel, regularly spent time with her to help her correlate her coursework with relevant military projects.

Price was also inspired by Eller College of Management professor Sudha Ram.

“”Who can miss her energy when she walks into the room? She provided me with a strong understanding of basic data management which I still use today,”” Price said.

Ram was pleased to learn of Price’s achievement.

Ram said Price took several of her classes, and she always enjoyed interacting with Price.

“”I recall her as a bright and articulate young woman with a great work ethic,”” Ram said. “”I am so pleased to hear she is doing well. I am very proud of her.””

Price said the education she received at UA has given her the ability to adapt to the changing environment the Army requires and that it felt great to break the glass for future women.

“”A lot of other women paid their dues ahead of me. In essence, we all stand on the shoulders of those that came before us. Now that the glass is broken, I hope to see many others come behind me and surpass me,”” Price said.