Director, Imaging Systems Lab, Hewlett Packard
(profile at the time of induction in 2005)

Neerja Raman's visionary and results driven approach has created one of the most highly respected and motivated teams in HP's central research laboratory for the company's innovative camera and ink-jet products. Her team is geographically dispersed, global, and a model of diversity. Recently, technologies developed by Neerja's lab received industry recognition for leading-edge products that have led to a key initiative around "smart media."

Throughout her career as a scientist, and during her 18 years at HP, Neerja has made several significant contributions to the advancement of science, inventing and developing over 100 state-of-the-art technologies. She patented a system and method for enhancing scanned document images for color printing. Not only has she developed these innovative technologies, she's also deployed them in areas specifically meant to improve the human condition.

Neerja's commitment to science and education continues well outside her scope of work at HP. She is dedicated to giving back to her community and does so in several different ways. She supports a program called Schools Online, which connects kids of different socio-economic backgrounds in an online environment where they can learn from each other. Through this community program, the Internet helps break down the barriers between socio-economic classes and promotes diversity and sensitivity in kids - the kids who will be tomorrow's leaders. She is also active on various advisory boards that further promote opportunities for women.

She has consistently championed improving the diversity ratio by guiding and highlighting the activities of the Hewlett Packard Labs (HPL) Technical Women's Group. She is a mentor in HP's Mentor Program and has a mentee assigned to her yearly while also continuing to informally mentor several other women in the company. She is one of the few who have maintained her technical expertise while advancing on the management ladder.

Recently, Neerja was asked by the Director of the Labs to join the Technical Review Board that reviews and approves the higher-level promotions for HP's Technical Career Path program and is the only woman on the board of twelve. Her participation has increased understanding and addresses the diversity issues in the program and enabled her to advise and coach HPL's women on the promotion process.

Neerja's demonstration of leadership excellence is evident in her passion for science and innovation, her endless contributions to the technology industry and her dedication to the community, including her promotion of the importance of science education among women. She is an inspiration and role model for young people, and her leadership skills have made significant contributions to the lives of individuals well beyond the Silicon Valley.

• Profile updated in 2007

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