In February 2005, the University announced the formation of two Task Forces - the Task Force on Women Faculty and the Task Force on Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) - to "develop concrete proposals to reduce barriers to the advancement of women faculty at Harvard" before the end of the academic year.

• The Task Force on Women Faculty was charged with making recommendations concerning the design and implementation of a series of concrete measures designed to promote gender diversity in faculty ranks and in academic leadership positions across the University. The examination of issues relating to women faculty included attention to the particular challenges and barriers faced by minority women pursuing academic careers.

• The Task Force on Women in Science and Engineering was charged with analyzing and making recommendations concerning effective ways to build and sustain the "pipeline" of women pursuing academic careers in science, from undergraduate studies to graduate and postdoctoral work to advancement through faculty ranks.

In May 2005, the Task Forces released their reports. They concentrated on identifying issues for immediate action and recommended structures and initiatives to ensure continuing commitment to enhancing faculty diversity. The Task Forces' investigations revealed complex and wide ranging concerns warranting significant further attention and analysis.