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Pioneering mountain climber to share story with campus

Mountain climber, scientist, inspirational speaker and author Arlene Blum will be the keynote speaker at the annual meeting of the Friends of the Library, 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 16, in the University Library Gallery.

Blum led the first American and all-women’s ascent of Annapurna I in the Himalayas. Annapurna I is one of the highest summits in the world. She also led the first women’s team up Mt. McKinley and was the first woman to attempt Mt. Everest.

She has written two books and her first one, Annapurna: A Woman’s Place, was selected by Fortune Magazine as, “one of 75 books that teach you everything you really need to know about business.”

Her new book, Breaking Trail: A Climbing Life, chronicles her achievements as a climber and as a scientist. Blum has a doctorate in biophysical chemistry and has taught at Stanford University, Wellesley College and UC Berkeley. Her research was instrumental in banning cancer-causing chemicals used as a flame retardant on children’s sleepwear.

“With her extensive background she will appeal to a variety of people including climbers, scientists, women, writers and adventure enthusiasts,” says Sally Hitchcock, University Library outreach coordinator.

The lecture, part of National Library Week, is free and open to the public.

For more information on the lecture, contact Hitchcock at 278-5954.