The Harvard Crimson - Volume CL, No. 23

THE HARVARD CRIMSON

No. 19 Harvard Football Faces

Cornell on Friday

of Brazil and Nonprofit Partner

STUDENT

SEE PAGE 8

Cambridge Expands Higher Ed Access

FREE COLLEGE. Massachusetts and Cambridge leaders have recently announced programs that would allow Massachusetts residents to attend community college tuition free.

SEE PAGE 11

BOOKS

Author Profile: Drew Gilpin Faust

EMERITA. Former Harvard President Drew Faust’s memoir, “Necessary Trouble: Growing Up at Midcentury,” discusses a life of trailblazing. Faust became Harvard’s first female president in 2007.

SEE PAGE 13

CRIME

Campus Crime Rose in 2022

SECURITY REPORT. An annual Harvard University Police Department report released on Sunday found that campus crime climbed 46 percent in 2022 from the 10-year low reported in 2021.

SEE PAGE 12

Tenuous Trust in Harvard Mental Health Resources

SEEKING CARE. Harvard has massively expanded its mental health resources in recent years amid reports showing worsening depression and anxiety among students on campus and nationwide. But for some students in the College, barriers to trust in these institutional resources have persisted. SEE PAGE 6

Harvard’s Acceptance Rates for Men and Women are Nearly Identical. That’s Rare for the Ivy League.

BY MICHELLE N. AMPONSAH CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

There is a gender gap in higher education — but not the gender gap that has traditionally existed.

Across the nation’s colleges and universities, women outnumber men — for example, in Harvard’s Class of 2027, women and men made up 53 and 47 percent of the class, respectively.

In 1970, two years prior to the passage of Title IX, just 12 percent of women aged 25 to 34 held a bachelor’s degree versus 20 percent of men, according to the Brookings Institution. By 2020, the percentage of women with a bachelor’s degree rose to 41 percent but was 32 percent for men.

The gender gap that dominated higher education has seemingly reversed. Wom-

en, traditionally the minority in undergraduate enrollment, now constitute the majority. Since 2007, women have either been underrepresented or slightly overrepresented as a share of Harvard’s enrolled class, but since 2019-20, an increasingly wider gap has emerged.

Some have suggested that universities have adopted an unofficial policy to give men a boost in the admissions process and create gender parity in admitted classes. Admissions staff prefer to have gender parity in their student body to make their schools more attractive to prospective applicants, the New York Times reported.

Still, Harvard maintained a nearly identical acceptance rate of 3.24 percent for male and female applicants to the Class of 2027 — despite roughly 5,000 more female applicants that year. Harvard seems to be an outlier in the

Ivy League for its extreme parity in admissions rates between male and female applicants, even at the expense of equal shares of men and women in the class.

“The facts are Harvard gets more women than men. The women of Harvard applying are more qualified than men. And last year, Harvard had gender parity in admissions,” Sasha Chada, CEO of admissions consulting organization Ivy Scholars, said in an interview.

Harvard spokesperson Jonathan Palumbo declined to comment for this article.

Using information from public Common Data Sets, The Crimson analyzed enrollment data, acceptance rates, and yield rates of the eight Ivy League universities and MIT, California Institute of Technology, and Stanford University to identify gendered penalties and preferences in the

admissions process.

‘Concerted Efforts’

Since the 2007-08 admissions cycle, Harvard’s acceptance rate for male and female applicants has remained roughly equal. Yet women now comprise a greater share of the applicant pool.

For the 2022-23 academic year, the acceptance rate for male and female applicants to the College was nearly identical to the thousandth decimal point: 3.240 percent for men and 3.241 percent for women. But women comprised 54 percent of the applicant pool, while men were 45 percent.

As the College’s acceptance rate has

SEE PAGE 5

Gino Defends Herself in Letter to Faculty Activists Protest City Council Candidates

BY ADELAIDE E. PARKER AND JENNIFER Y. SONG CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Harvard Business School professor Fran-

cesca Gino, facing possible tenure revocation after allegations of data fraud, rolled out a two-pronged defense against her detractors at the end of September — launching a public website and emailing a letter to HBS faculty.

Following a 18-month investigation into potential academic misconduct, the University formally began a review of Gino’s tenure in July. The investigation was sparked by a series of posts by quantitative analysis blog Data Colada alleging that four of Gino’s papers contained falsified data.

Just days after the University informed her of its review, Gino filed a $25 million lawsuit against Harvard, HBS Dean Srikant M. Datar, and Data Colada bloggers Uri Simonsohn, Leif D. Nelson, and Jo -

seph P. Simmons, alleging a conspiracy to defame her and gender discrimination by the University.

In a letter obtained by The Crimson that was emailed to HBS faculty Friday, Gino criticized HBS administrators for their handling of the allegations against her.

“I am writing you today to break my silence,” Gino wrote. “Making the decision to sue my own institution was devastating. But I was left with no alternative, as I will share more about here. I am innocent. And in the spirit of Veritas, I need to right this wrong.”

This email coincided with the launch of Gino’s new website about the case, “francesca-v-harvard.org.” On the website, Gino accuses HBS of negligence and misconduct and of conspiring with Data Colada to defame her — some of Gino’s first public statements since her tenure review began.

SEE PAGE 4

BY MUSKAAN ARSHAD AND JULIAN J. GIORDANO CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

More than 20 demonstrators protested outside an event held by the Cambridge Citizens Coalition over the group’s endorsement of two Cambridge City Council candidates who promoted transphobic and racist content on social media.

The protest, organized by the Boston Democratic Socialists of America, took aim at Robert Winters and Carrie E. Pasquarello, two Council candidates who have come under fire for liking and reposting transphobic and Islamophobic tweets. Winters’ posts were first brought to light in the context of the election at a September candidate forum hosted by Harvard’s graduate student union — after which Pasquarello’s social media activity also came under scrutiny.

While preparing to march to the event,

organizers handed out fliers titled, “Do these people represent you?” that included screenshots of some of Winters’ and Pasquarello’s most incendiary liked tweets and retweets, as well as a link to an online petition calling on the CCC to “unendorse” the two candidates.

In one such tweet, Winters is quoted as writing, “Keep the chains on the protestors. They’ll go well with the leg irons #StupidLivesMatter.” The flier also includes Pasquarello’s liked tweets, one of which includes the statement, “We’ve been told that teachers talking to kids about sex (fantasies, orientation) doesn’t lead to grooming!”

“This isn’t really reflected in their actual campaign materials. But like it or not, your personal views are going to impact the way you go about your politics, the way you conduct yourself,” said Willow Ross Carretero Chavez, an organizer with the Boston DSA.

SEE PAGE 12

UPHEAVAL IN THE HOUSE. Former National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice said the Republican Party now has a powerful “anarchist element” at a Harvard Institute of Politics forum Wednesday. The discussion with former Massachusetts Governor Deval L. Patrick ’78 was held just one day after eight far-right House Republicans voted with Democrats to oust Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from his position as speaker of the House. Rice said Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) and his allies had become “powerful enough to shut down the United States House of Representatives.” BY CAM E. KETTLES — CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

AROUND THE IVIES

PENN MEDICINE’S DREW WEISSMAN, KATALIN KARIKÓ WIN 2023 NOBEL PRIZE IN MEDICINE

Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Health System, were named recipients of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Medicine on Oct. 2. Karikó and Weissman were awarded for theirpast messenger RNA research — in particular, a study the two published in 2005, which was used to develop the Pfizer and Moderna Covid-19 vaccines.

THE DAILY PENNSYLVANIAN

PRINCETON SAYS KIDNAPPED

STUDENT WAS CONDUCTING RESEARCH FOR ‘APPROVED PH.D. DISSERTATION’

A statement from Princeton said doctoral candidate Elizabeth Tsurkov, who was confirmed missing in July, was kidnapped while conducting research for her politics dissertation. Michael Hotchkiss, a Princeton University spokesperson, wrote in a statement that “the University is focused on Elizabeth’s safety and well-being.”

THE DAILY PRINCETONIAN

ALL LIVING U.S. SURGEONS GENERAL CONVENE AT DARTMOUTH FOR PANEL ON MENTAL HEALTH

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and the seven living previous surgeons general attended a panel titled “Future of Mental Health and Wellness” hosted by Dartmouth last Thursday. Moderated by CNN Chief Medical Correspondent and neurosurgeon Sanjay Gupta, panelists were asked questions about ways to mitigate the mental health crisis and discussed how it is compounded by providers’ own health struggles.

THE DARTMOUTH

ADMISSIONS HOSTS ANNUAL MULTICULTURAL OPEN HOUSE

Yale’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions hosted its annual Multicultural Open House, which connected more than 950 prospective applicants to the staff at each of Yale’s four cultural centers. The event featured presentations, performances, tours, and panels. “It was so rewarding to see so many students and families travel to New Haven to explore Yale’s diverse, supportive, and dynamic communities,” Jeremiah Quinlan, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid at Yale, wrote in an email.

THE YALE DAILY NEWS

NONCONSENSUAL SEXUAL CONTACT AND STALKING INCREASED IN 2022-23 ACADEMIC YEAR, SURVEY REPORTS

Six percent of students experienced nonconsensual sexual contact involving force or incapacitation in the 2022-23 academic year, Cornell’s Sexual Assault and Related Misconduct survey revealed on Monday, Oct 5. This is a twofold increase from 3 percent in the 2020-21 school year, but is the same percentage as both the 2016-17 and 2018-19 academic years. A total of 2,163 students responded to the survey.

THE CORNELL DAILY SUN

New Legal Aid Program Launches

Adams Renovations Enter Last Stage

LEGAL AID. The Harvard Graduate Council launched a legal aid program aiming to assist graduate students with personal legal concerns, student leaders announced at an HGC meeting Monday. The legal aid program allows students from any of Harvard’s 12 graduate and professional schools to sign up for free 30-minute legal consultation sessions. At the appointments, the program will provide recommendations and referrals, but it will not offer legal representation. The program will also not provide advice on cases against Harvard University. BY TOSIN O. AKINSIKU AND TILLY R. ROBINSON — CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

RENOVATIONS. As students gathered to celebrate the 92nd birthday of Adams House last Thursday, one crucial guest was missing — Adams House itself. With the start of a new phase of construction at Adams in June, residents of the house were not able to access their traditional gathering spot of Westmorly Court, which contains Adams’ dining hall. Instead, the House birthday party was held at The Inn, where many residents have been relocated into overflow housing. The ongoing construction is part of the third and final phase of the Adams House Renewal Project. BY JACKSON C. SENNOTT — CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

In Photos: Boston Ballet’s

Fall Experience

BY ADDISON Y. LIU — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

BOSTON BALLET opens its 60th season with Fall Experience, a dynamic collection of four pieces that captures the joy and beauty of dance. Moving musical arrangements, innovative choreography, and mesmerizing dancers came together in this inspirational show–one that is truly the experience of the year.

DANCERS in holographic skirts move against a backdrop of red panes, shaping a complex interplay between light and shadow.

CHOREOGRAPHER My’kal Stromile makes his debut with the world premiere of Form and Gesture, an anthology of four scenes.

COLORFUL costumes and high-flying moves make for a piece infused with energy, passion, and spirit. This dazzling piece punctuates the experience with raw emotion and brilliance–the show undeniably lives up to its name and more.

DANCERS illuminate the stage with their grace and vitality, pairing perfectly with the bold music and intense lighting.

PRINCIPAL DANCERS Derek Dunn and Ji Young Chae form a delightfully powerful and elegant duo on stage.

COMPANY ARTIST Henry Griffin shines under the spotlight, bringing Stromile’s choreography to life.

THE SHOW commences with a selection from Bach Cello Suites, fusing classical foundations with contemporary refinement. Renowned Russian-born cellist Sergey Antonov accompanies dancers in Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cello Suites No. 1, 2, and 10.

OCTOBER 6, 2023 THE HARVARD CRIMSON

IN THE REAL WORLD

BIDEN ADMIN ALLOWS BORDER WALL CONSTRUCTION IN SOUTH TEXAS

The Biden Administration waived several environmental laws in a sweeping executive act, to allow border wall construction in Texas. The Clean Air Act, Safe Drinking Water Act and Endanged Species Act were some of the federal laws waived by the Department of Homeland Security, according to the Associated Press. Funds from a congressional appropriation in 2019 for border wall construction are set to be used. Environmental advocates voiced their concerns regarding wildlife habitats and species endangerment.

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES

SEEK HOUSE LEADERSHIP AS MCCARTHY IS OUSTED

Several of the top 2024 Republican presidential candidates addressed the chaos caused by the removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, reconsidering the current leadership of the party. The Associated Press reports that McCarthy’s downfall is an indicator of Trump’s influence on the Republican party and his large lead in the 2024 GOP presidential race. The chaos from the McCarthy’s removal was criticized by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Former Vice President Mike Pence.

TOP U.S. OFFICIALS MEET WITH MEXICO TO DISCUSS SHARED SECURITY ISSUES

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other officials from the Biden Administration discussed issues like arms trafficking, increasing migration, and distribution of fentanyl with counterparts in Mexico. The heightened migration flows were discussed under increasing pressure from the Republican party to take action to slow migration. According to The Associated Press, the percentage of U.S. Border Patrol arrests at the U.S. border have not changed appreciably since August 2022 and are predicted to approach 500,000 people this year.

BIDEN WORRIES THAT CHAOS IN THE HOUSE COULD DISRUPT U.S. AID TO UKRAINE

The lack of leadership within the House of Representatives, following a power struggle within the Republican Party, could possibly lead to disruption of aid to Ukraine. President Biden voiced conern on this matter and promised to give a major speech “soon,” continually backing Kyiv, according to the New York Times. He mentioned “another means” by which the U.S. could fund aid but did not elaborate. This uncertainty contrasted the confidence he expressed on Tuesday morning to reassure allies that American support would not be interrupted after funds were blocked by Republicans.

THE HARVARD CRIMSON

Associate Managing Editors

Leah J. Teichholtz ’24

Meimei Xu ’24

Editorial Chairs

Eleanor V. Wikstrom 24

Christina M. Xiao ’24

Arts Chairs

Anya L. Henry ’24

Alisa S. Regassa ’24

Friday 10/6

ALL THE WORLD IS HERE

EXHIBITION

Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Explore this gallery that features more than 600 artifacts, many of which for the first time. These artifacts trace their origins to all across the globe including Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Visit the fourth floor to experience a narrative that connects the artifacts together to highlight how American anthropology came to be.

Sunday 10/8

OKTOBERFEST AND HONK!

FESTIVAL IN HARVARD SQUARE

Harvard Square, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Watch the streets fill with rambunctious paraders, horn players, and spectators of all ages in the 44th annual Oktoberfest and HONK! festival.

Monday 10/9

WORLDWIDE WEEK: GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT AT HARVARD

In person and online, week of 10/8

Monday marks the start of Worldwide Week, a collection of workshops, panels, and exhibits featuring international affairs. Experience a global twist to topics ranging from improvisational comedy to Greek prisons and AI.

NEXT WEEK 3

What’s Next

Tuesday 10/10

“PERSPECTIVES ON PERFORMANCE”: WHAT IS DRESSING “NORMAL”?

Farkas 203, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Harvard Theatre, Dance, and Media presents “Perspectives on Performance”, an exploration into what it means to be “preppy”, and the role of clothing in performance of the everyday.

Wednesday 10/11

FROM LONELINESS TO SOCIAL CONNECTION: DISCONNECT ON MENTAL WELL-BEING

François-Xavier Bagnoud G13, 1-1:50 p.m.

Join Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Brigham Young University, for a dive into the ramifications of social withdrawal on emotional well-being. Holt-Lunstad will share the scope and implications of social disconnect, inspired by her work with the U.S. surgeon general adviser.

Thursday 10/12

INTERNATIONAL COMEDY NIGHT FEATURING ALINGTON MITRA

Harvard Commons 1st Floor, 7-9 p.m.

Brace for a night of laughter at this international-themed comedy night hosted by Weatherhead Center. The performance features comedian Alingon Mitra and members of the Harvard College Stand-Up Comic Society.

Friday 10/13

WORKSHOP ON 19TH-CENTURY

FRENCH GRAPHITE DRAWING

Harvard Art Museums, 1-4 p.m.

Unleash your inner artist in this half observational, half activity-based workshop on 19th century French graphite art. First, visiting art scholar Timothy David Mayhew will guide participants through graphite-media collections in the art museum.

Saturday 10/14

“THE KEGELSTAT TRIO”: A SCREENING ON MUSIC AND ROMANCE

24 Quincy St., 7-9:10 p.m.

Watch the enchanting screening of “The Kegelstat Trio”, an adaptation feature of the iconic work of filmmaker Éric Rohmer. The piece centers around romance, friendship and music in an isolated theatrical beach house, filmed by Azevedo during the pandemic lockdown.

SUNLIT STROLL

Magazine Chairs Io Y. Gilman ’25 Amber H. Levis ’25

Blog Chairs Tina Chen ’24

Hana Rehman ’25

Sports Chairs Mairead B. Baker ’24

Aaron B. Schuchman ’25

Associate Business Manager Derek S. Chang ’24

STAFF FOR THIS ISSUE

Night Editors Isabella B. Cho ’24

Vivian Zhao ’24

Design Chairs Sophia Salamanca ’25

Sami E. Turner ’25

Multimedia Chairs Joey Huang ’24 Julian J. Giordano ’25

Technology Chairs Kevin Luo ’24 Justin Y. Ye ’24

Assistant Night Editors Yusuf S. Mian ’25

Camilla J. Martinez ’26

Thomas J. Mete ’26

Tyler J.H. Ory ’26

Adelaide E. Parker ’26

Jennifer Y. Song ’26

Ammy M. Yuan ’26

Story Editors Brandon L. Kingdollar ’24

Leah J. Teichholtz ’24

Meimei Xu ’24

Design Editors Toby R. Ma ’24

Nayeli Cardozo ’25

Sami E. Turner ’25

Laurinne P. Eugenio ’26

Photo Editors Joey Huang ’24

Julian J. Giordano ’25

Chris L. Li ’25

Addison Y. Liu ’25

Corey K. Gorczycki ’25

Nathanael Tjandra ’26

Editorial Editors Cara J. Chang ’24 Lucas T. Gazianis ‘24

Arts Editor Zachary J. Lech ’24

Sports Editors Mairead B. Baker ’24 Maddie B. Barkate ’24

Caroline E. Behrens ’25

Aaron B. Shuchman ’25

FRANK S. ZHOU — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

FRANK S. ZHOU — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

Report Shows 79% of Grades in A-Range

GRADES ON THE RISE.

A report presented Tuesday revealed that grades across Harvard College have risen significantly over the past 20 years, sparking discussion among faculty

Harvard College grades have risen significantly in the past 20 years, per a newly released report presented at the first Faculty of Arts and Sciences meeting of the academic year Tuesday afternoon.

The report found that the percentage of A-range grades given to college students in the 202021 academic year was 79 percent, compared to 60 percent a decade earlier. Mean grades on a fourpoint scale were 3.80 in the 2020-

21 academic year, up from 3.41 in 2002-03. The proportion of A-range grades given in the 2020-21 academic year varied significantly by division: 73 percent in the Arts and Humanities, 65 percent in both the Sciences and Social Sciences, and 60 percent in courses at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Dean of Undergraduate Education Amanda Claybaugh and Dean of Harvard College Rakesh Khurana presented the report, released late last week and compiled by members of the Office of Undergraduate Education and the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. In the meeting, Claybaugh said that the “report establishes we have a problem — or rather, we have two: the intertwined problems of grade inflation and compression.” Per the report, grade compression — or grades concentrating at the higher end of the scale — pro -

vides less information about students’ relative success in courses and complicates selection processes for prizes, fellowships, or induction into Phi Beta Kappa, which rely heavily on students’ grade point averages.

As a result, students rely on letters of recommendation and extracurriculars to distinguish themselves, which Claybaugh in the meeting called “shadow systems of distinction.”

“There is a sense that giving a wider range of grades would give students better information about their performance, and it would give us better information about where they are ranked against other students,” Claybaugh said in an interview after the meeting.

Claybaugh said that the evidence for the existence of grade inflation was less clear, as many student grades are well-deserved and faculty have increasingly focused on learning objectives.

Nonetheless, she said it seems, as one faculty member put it, external “market forces” are influencing grading, particularly as faculty rely on positive course evaluations from students for professional advancement, she said in the interview.

The OUE and the Bok Center for Teaching and Learning will also rely less on quantitative course evaluations for teaching awards, the report stated, recommending the FAS review the role of evaluations in decisions to promote or grant tenure to faculty and noting the “direct correlation between expected grades and Q ratings.”

But it cautioned against efforts at other institutions to combat grade compression, such as Princeton University’s since-repealed policy of limiting the proportion of As to 35 percent and Cornell University’s policy of internally publishing each course’s median grade on students’ transcripts. Such policies, the report stated, “tend to yield unintended consequences.”

Claybaugh said she would defer to the full faculty to decide whether or not to implement concrete reforms to Harvard’s grading policies, but said she would be “interested in exploring” changes “that put more information on the transcript that put the grade in context.”

In the meeting, faculty discussed a wide range of options to tackle rising grades.

HBS FROM PAGE 1

Gino Defends Data Fraud Allegations in Letter to Faculty

“It has been shattering to watch my career being decimated and my reputation completely destroyed,” Gino wrote on her website. “It has been hard to see how this situation impacted those around me - my family, my mentors, my collaborators and my students.”

“The record needs to be corrected. This website is my attempt to do so,” she added. “Let that correction begin with this simple and unambiguous statement: I absolutely did not commit academic fraud.”

In the letter and website, Gino claimed changes to HBS’ research misconduct policies prevented her from adequately defending herself against allegations of data fraud. She criticized Harvard for only allowing her to consult with two advisers throughout the investigation process and allowing her just weeks to respond to the evidence against her — which she said isolated her from those who could help defend her and prevented her from mounting a full defense.

“Data Colada had years to put together their allegations, HBS and its outside consultants had months to do their investigation, and yet

I had only a few weeks to digest it all and respond,” Gino wrote to her colleagues. “All this while teaching and performing my regular faculty duties. And remember: I had no expert help — not one data analyst, IT expert, or statistician.”

HBS spokesperson Brian C. Kenny declined to comment on Gino’s allegations. Simonsohn, Nelson, and Simmons did not respond to a request for comment.

On Sept. 16, Data Colada published its first public statements on the substance of the lawsuit — a blog post summarizing several exhibits in the filings against them. The exhibits detailed three retraction emails sent by Harvard research integrity officers to academic journals. Each letter included analysis from Data Colada and an external forensic firm hired by Harvard.

In their post, Data Colada wrote that the retraction notices support the blog’s earlier allegations against Gino.

“For all four studies, the forensic firm found consequential differences between the earlier and final versions of the data files, such that the final versions exhibited stronger effects in the hypothesized direction than did the earlier versions,” the bloggers wrote.

Gino, however, claimed that the analysis contained in HBS’ retraction notices was misleading and did not indicate research misconduct. “HBS quoted selectively from its forensics consultants — and pulled in unattributed extended verbatim quotes from Data Colada. HBS circulated the resulting mash-up with no statement of authorship — no person or team tak-

Data Colada had years to put together their allegations, HBS and its outside consultants had months to do their investigation, and yet I had only a few weeks to digest it all and respond.

ing either credit or responsibility,” she wrote. “Notably, the mash-up selectively omits crucial provisions that the professional data analysts included, such as the fact that without the original data, no conclusion of research misconduct can be made.”

In addition to her accusations against HBS, Gino wrote that Data Colada’s allegations are “false and defamatory.” Gino accused the blog of treating her unfairly by declining to share their investigation with her before approaching HBS, which she said went against Data Colada’s typical review procedures.

Over the next few weeks, Gino plans to continue responding to Data Colada’s findings — including a more thorough response to their Sept. 16 blog post. She wrote that she stands by her decision to sue the University. “Harvard has ruined my career, wrongfully,” Gino wrote. “The only way to right this wrong is for me to sue.”

adelaide.parker@thecrimson.com

jennifer.song@thecrimson.com

During the meeting, Classics

Department chair David F. Elmer ’98 said grading “contributes tremendously to the anxiety” students face, but added that he thinks they “deserve to be fairly evaluated in a way that reflects their experience in the classroom.”

Annabel L. Kim, a professor of Romance Languages and Literatures, suggested the “abolition of grading,” replacing the current system entirely with “narrative-based” grading systems.

Kim pointed out that faculty already have to provide such evaluations in letters of recommendation.

“Why not lean into it by abolishing grades,” she said.

Some faculty also raised the issue of grading and artificial intelligence.

Christopher W. Stubbs, the dean of the Sciences division, said the rise of artificial intelligence “offers a surreal opportunity” to address challenges in evaluating students.

Claybaugh said the report and the discussion would compel faculty to reexamine their grading practices, hopefully creating a downward pressure on grading. Still, the faculty emerged without clear next steps, she said.

“We’re at a stage of generating thinking about it, rather than taking concrete steps,” Claybaugh said.

Faculty also unanimously approved an amendment to cross-registration policy that

would lift the eight-credit cap on cross-registration and dictate that cross-registered courses would not count towards students’ GPAs. Hoekstra announced at Tuesday’s meeting that she was forming an advisory committee to review the format of future faculty meetings, noting that it was historic that she as FAS dean — instead of University President Claudine Gay — was chairing the meeting.

Hoekstra also announced the Faculty Council voted unanimously on Sept. 20 to expel an undergraduate who was found to have repeatedly violated the Faculty Code of Conduct — the most severe disciplinary action for undergraduates. FAS spokesperson Jonathan Palumbo declined to comment on the expulsion.

Hoekstra also informed the faculty that the University is engaged in an ongoing review of its admissions policies in the wake of the Supreme Court’s summer decision radically curtailing the use of race in college admissions. The meeting also featured updates from administrators on the implementation of previous-term course registration and an update on campus health by Harvard University Health Services Executive Director Giang T. Nguyen.

rahem.hamid@thecrimson.com elias.schisgall@thecrimson.com

Moungi Bawendi ’82 Wins Nobel Prize in Chemistry

“Louis taught me everything. He was my mentor. He’s an incredible human being, an incredible scholar and I try to emulate him in many ways,” Bawendi said.

Moungi G. Bawendi ’82 was among three scientists awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry “for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots,” the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced in a press release Wednesday morning.

Bawendi, professor of chemistry at MIT, won the prize in conjunction with Columbia University chemistry professor Louis E. Brus, also Bawendi’s postdoctoral supervisor, and Alexei I. Ekimov of Nanocrystals Technology Inc.

Together, the scientists are responsible for the discovery and development of quantum dots, small semiconducting crystals whose properties, like color, can be finely adjusted as a function of their size.

Ekimov and Brus are credited with the discovery of this new class of materials, while Bawendi is recognized for standardizing quantum dot synthesis methods, making them more “tunable.” This breakthrough allowed researchers and companies to achieve greater control over quantum dot size during their chemical production, enabling more precise and reproducible results.

Bawendi unexpectedly received the prize in the middle of the night.

“I was fast asleep when they called me. I was very surprised, very shocked,” he said. He called it an “incredible honor” to receive the prize alongside his mentor.

Bawendi first met Brus, another one of this year’s laureates, at Bell Laboratories. Brus was one of a few scholars working on quantum dots at the time, and his work inspired Bawendi to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship with Brus.

According to Bawendi, they did not know the importance of their research back then.

“This was just really cool, it’s a brand new material, you’re investigating the transition from molecular species to bulk material, and you’re investigating a regime that hasn’t really been investigated before,” he added. These robust quantum dots are essentially very small balls that confine electrons into a compressed state. This makes them auspicious for storing energy, which the electrons release as electromagnetic radiation. These emitted bundles of light — or photons — vary in color depending on how much the electrons are squeezed, or the size of the quantum dot. The smaller the dot, the higher the energy frequency, translating to bluer light.

Beyond color, scientists can exert precise control over the quantum dots to elicit other unique optics, magnetic behavior, melting temperature, and other properties.

“These properties depend on the volume of these quantum dots, and these properties really emerge from the quantum mechanical behavior of electrons in the material,” he added.

These abilities put quantum dots at the crux of modern nanotechnology and materials sciences, with versatile applications in drug delivery, television color displays, biomedical imaging, and solar energy harvesting.

Bawendi credits a “great chemistry teacher in high school” for his choice of pursuing chemistry, though he has “always loved physics.”

While he was an undergraduate at Harvard, Bawendi said he “loved theory” and “stuck around for an extra year and did a master’s in a theory group.”

He continued with polymer research while he was a graduate student at the University of Chicago. Eventually, Bawendi decided to make the switch from theorist to experimentalist.

“I missed experiments, I missed seeing data being acquired, really discovering new things through interfacing with the real world,” he said.

Bawendi’s lab continues to work with quantum dots, especially their potential use as quantum emitters, sources of “very special kinds of photons.”

“You might be able to do something called photon entanglement, create these really weird quantum entities that we can then use for cryptography or for communication, for computing, or even sensing,” he added.

“So often, the research needs to be somehow motivated by some societal need or application, which is fine, but there also needs to be space for just being curious, because that’s where the discoveries actually come from.”

austin.wang@thecrimson.com jasmine.palma@thecrimson.com

BY AUSTIN H. WANG AND JASMINE PALMA CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

HARVARD CRIMSON

Source: Report on Grading at Harvard College ELIAS J. SCHISGALL — CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

Francesca Gino Harvard Business School Professor

Source: Report on Grading at Harvard College ELIAS J. SCHISGALL — CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

BY RAHEM D. HAMID AND ELIAS J. SCHISGALL CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

President Claudine Gay Talks Admissions

‘EVERYTHING IS ON THE TABLE’ Gay said nothing is off limits for Harvard’s admissions after the Supreme Court’s June decision on affirmative action.

BY MILES J. HERSZENHORN AND CLAIRE YUAN CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

As Harvard scrutinizes its admissions practices amid calls to end the use of legacy and donor preferences, University President Claudine Gay said no policy is off limits.

“Everything is on the table,” Gay said in an interview on Wednesday, her first with The Crimson since the Supreme Court declared Harvard College’s race-conscious admissions policy unconstitutional in a landmark decision earlier this summer. Gay’s remark was the clearest sign to date that Harvard might end the use of legacy and donor admissions preferences. Gay, however, did not directly answer a question about her personal stance on legacy preferences or whether the University will end the practice.

ADMISSIONS FROM PAGE 1

“I can’t, nor do I think it is actually productive to try to predict where that conversation is going to go,” she said. “But I think it’s a real signal of what a watershed moment we’re facing in higher ed, that we’re thinking and having conversations at this level of expansiveness.”

After the Court severely curtailed affirmative action in higher education in a June 29 ruling, two days before Gay assumed office, the University launched an internal review of its admissions practices.

As part of the ongoing review, Gay said University leaders intend to “think as holistically as possible” about how Harvard’s admissions system can “contribute to excellence, contribute to opportunity, and also allow us as an academic community to derive the full benefits that come from having a diverse group of learners.”

“It’s a wide-ranging conversation,” she added. Legacy and donor preferences quickly emerged as the next battleground in the fight over the future of admissions in higher education. In July, the United States Department of Education opened a civil rights investigation into

whether Harvard’s use of legacy and donor preferences discriminates on the basis of race.

The Supreme Court ruling left Harvard and peer universities scrambling over the summer to change their admissions policies to adhere to the law, which Gay described as the first priority.

Gay said the Court’s decision required the University to make some “obvious tactical changes,” such as “eliminating and graying out checkboxes that used to be there” and ensuring that Harvard’s admissions processes are not “executed in an explicitly race-conscious way.”

In the past few months, Harvard has overhauled its College application essay prompts and instructed alumni interviewers to not take an applicant’s race or ethnicity into account during evaluations for the Class of 2028.

It was only afterwards, Gay said, that the University was able to focus on reevaluating its admissions practices in “this radically changed landscape.”

Those conversations continued when Harvard’s governing

boards — the Harvard Corporation and the Board of Overseers — met during the weekend after Gay’s inauguration, the first time since the Supreme Court’s ruling. Harvard College Dean of Admissions William R. Fitzsimmons ’67 was spotted leaving Loeb House — home to the governing boards — on Sunday, during the second day of meetings.

Gay said the meeting of the boards was an opportunity to inform members about steps the University has taken to comply with the Court’s ruling and about the “broader conversation that is now underway at Harvard and elsewhere.”

The conversations in Loeb House focused on “thinking beyond this admission cycle, but stepping back and thinking about the long term,” Gay said.

But Gay said she did not want to “offer any predictions about what the outcomes” of those conversations would be or how they might be implemented — “other than to assure you that when there actually is something to communicate, I will be communicating it.”

Acceptance Rates for Men and Women are Nearly Identical

plummeted over the years, the proportion of admitted male and female applicants has grown increasingly similar — despite fewer male applicants than female applicants.

Chada said women typically outperform men in high school academics and represent a greater share of the applications to universities.

“It only makes sense — application volumes, admissions rates ought to be higher for women. That would be statistically parallel,” Chada said. “But most institutions appear to be making concerted efforts to maintain a balanced gender pool. But Harvard’s an exception there, for the most part.”

“Harvard is maintaining a similar acceptance rate between men and women. So there’s a larger female pool of students at Harvard than male pool of students at Harvard. This doesn’t show indications of significant gender bias,” he added.

In a 2014 article, the Washington Post analyzed data from 128 colleges and universities that admitted fewer than 35 percent of applicants for the fall 2012 term. At 16 of the schools — including Harvard, Dartmouth, Princeton, Johns Hopkins, Duke, and Emory — there were equal acceptance rates for men and women. Jon J. Boeckenstedt, vice provost of enrollment management at Oregon State University, wrote in an email that “if this is an issue, it’s mostly an issue at college admissions offices that have to shape the class” due to “way too many applicants compared to their capacity.”

Still, while Boeckenstedt said men “probably” experience advantages in admissions, these should not be referred to as a form of affirmative action.

“I don’t know that I’d call it affirmative action, because that’s a very specific program designed to address active discrimination in the past, and I doubt anyone would say that men have been the victims of discrimination,” Boeckenstedt wrote. While Harvard’s nearly identical male and female admissions rates lie on one extreme, another peer institution sits at the other end with more marked differences in acceptance rates — Brown University. Brown sports the most pronounced difference in acceptance rates and percentage of the applicant pool for men and women in the Ivy League.

For the 2022-23 academic year, Brown had nearly twice as many female applicants than male applicants to its freshman class, with 31,710 female applicants and 18,939 male applicants. The applicant pool was 62 percent female and just 37 percent male.

Despite this dramatic skew in

the applicant pool, Brown achieved roughly equal gender parity in its freshman class. The acceptance rate for men was 6.7 percent, while for women, it stood at 4 percent. The admitted freshman class contained a total of 1,275 men and 1,287 women.

Similarly, at Yale, for each admissions cycle since the 2008-09 academic year, male applicants have had a higher acceptance rate than female applicants. For the 2022-23 academic year, women and men made up 58 percent and 42 percent of the applicant pool, respectively, but 51 percent and 49 percent of the enrolled class.

Male-Dominated Schools

The trend of applicant pools having a greater number of women is not uniform across the board. Schools like Caltech and MIT appear to have an admissions preference for women, not men, in the application process.

Forty-eight schools admitted women at a higher rate than men, the Washington Post reported in 2014. Among them were MIT, Caltech, Carnegie Mellon University, and Harvey Mudd College — which had a gap of 24 percentage points.

Men outnumbered women “significantly” at the four schools, the Washington Post reported.

Just down the Charles River, MIT accepts male applicants at nearly half the rate that it accepts female applicants, according to data from the 2022-23 Common Data Set.

For the past 20 years, the average gap in admissions rates between men and women at MIT has been approximately nine percentage points.

Women have been accepted at a higher rate than men at MIT since the 2003-04 admissions cycle, when the gap in admissions rate was at its peak — roughly 12 percent for men and 29 percent for women.

The gendered gap in admissions rates has narrowed as MIT’s acceptance rate has plummeted. In the 2022-23 admissions cycle, the acceptance rate for men hovered at about 3 percent, while for women, it was 5.5 percent.

At Caltech, there has been an average gap of 10 percentage points between the acceptance rate for male and female applicants since 2003-04. Women were accepted at more than double the rate for men for the 2022-23 school year.

‘An

Increasingly Female System of Higher Education’

Some who study admissions closely believe that the future of higher education could be altered significantly if current university enrollment trends persist.

Source: Common Data Set

Chada wrote that if applicant pools continue to trend in favor of women in terms of the gendered disparity in applications and admissions rates, “it could force some institutions who receive federal funding to face federal scrutiny,” including at the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court ruled this summer in favor of anti-affirmative action group Students for Fair Admissions, declaring that race-based affirmative action in college admissions violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

In its 40-page majority opinion, the Court did not discuss gendered admissions preferences or their constitutionality.

Chada said that in the future, he believes it is “quite possible” that “men will be the ones receiving affirmative action and women will be the ones who are accepted by default, who have the bigger applicant pool with the stronger academic qualifications.”

“If current trends continue, we’re looking at an increasingly female system of higher education,” he added.

michelle.amponsah@thecrimson.com

Source: Common Data Set

Making Sense of Mental Health at Harvard

familiar with Harvard’s mental health ecosystem suggested that even as Harvard’s mental health offerings have become increasingly robust, barriers to student trust and understanding of these resources persist.

BY J.

It is challenging to navigate Harvard’s email lists, bulletin boards — even bathroom stalls — without encountering flyers for mental health support resources.

But that doesn’t mean all students feel supported or trust the infrastructure that is meant to act as a safety net for students going through mental health hardships.

Rae P. Trainer ’26 said she doesn’t remember the incident that got her placed on involuntary leave. Following a night of drinking, Trainer, who had struggled with disordered eating, was told that she made a concerning statement to her proctor while intoxicated. She woke up hospitalized.

Because she was placed on an involuntary medical leave, Trainer said she was prohibited from returning to campus to retrieve basic necessities.

“I was not allowed on campus to get things like clothes, or my laptop,” Trainer said. “I actually had to spend almost a week in a psych ward without any clothes of my own. Another patient gave me the shirt off of her back because I wasn’t allowed on campus to get any of my stuff.”

Trainer successfully petitioned the College to allow her to resume her studies, but she said the series of events negatively affected her trust of institutional resources.

“I think that today I would be afraid to seek crisis care because I know what might happen. I know that my enrollment in school might be jeopardized,” she said. College spokesperson Jonathan Palumbo declined to comment on Trainer’s experience, citing a policy against commenting on individual student matters.

Interviews with six students

‘Nobody Really Knows the Truth’

In 2004, The Crimson reported that Harvard College was facing a “mental health crisis,” portraying a campus environment where more students than not had experienced anxiety and depression in the last year. Many were unable to receive timely and comprehensive mental health care.

In the two decades following this report, surveys on student mental health at Harvard conducted by Harvard University Health Services have shown increasing incidence of mental health conditions on campus.

Between 2014 and 2018, the percentage of Harvard undergraduates who reported that they have or think they may have depression jumped from 22 percent to 31 percent. For anxiety disorders, the proportion increased from 19 percent to 30 percent.

Though startling, Harvard’s

steadily declined year over year for nearly a decade, from roughly 56 percent in 2013 to just 38 percent in 2021. Over the same period, the proportion of students who reported seeking mental health support rose nearly 10 percentage points.

Despite these measurable nationwide trends, the underlying cause of student mental health challenges at Harvard has been difficult to identify, with speculation ranging from bouts of imposter syndrome to a uniquely self-assessing student body.

Kaitlyn Tsai ’25, who has sought mental health care through Harvard’s Counseling and Mental Health Service — Harvard’s flagship mental health resource — said she did so after academics and extracurriculars crowded her mental space after a difficult summer.

“I traditionally responded to stress or negative events or emotions by just diving into work and numbing everything out and trying to ignore it all,” said Tsai, a Crimson Magazine editor. “Last year, I think I just reached my breaking point.”

A 2020 report by the Harvard University Task Force on Managing Student Mental Health iden-

knows the truth.”

“They’ll say, ‘Well, it’s social media and people having their self-concept attacked by what they see on TikTok and Instagram’ and what have you. And others talk about the insane competitiveness of the college years,” Hyman said. “I don’t think we re -

of Harvard’s mental health support network, some peer therapy groups exist, in part, to address needs unmet by institutional resources.

Suhaas M. Bhat ’24, who co-founded HUGPT, said much of his motivation to form the group was born out of the lack of avail-

care providers.

In 2018, in response to a dramatic uptick in the number of students being admitted to psychiatric units, CAMHS debuted a new system that prioritized reducing wait times. The system aimed to schedule students for an initial 30-minute consultation within 48 hours of their booking.

But the initiative proved insufficient to address the underlying disparity between availability and student need, especially as Covid-19 wracked campus and raised staff turnover rates. In spring 2022, therapy appointment wait times stretched as long as six weeks. CAMHS did provide care for students in need of urgent help, and the 24/7 CAMHS Cares hotline, rolled out in summer 2021, was also available as a resource.

statistics are consistent with, and at times in fact better than, national trends, which show college students have become increasingly likely to report poor mental health.

According to the annual Healthy Minds survey of more than 350,000 college students across 373 campuses, the percentage of students who reported “flourishing” mental health has

tified several common stressors through focus group interviews, including competitive extracurriculars, loneliness, imposter syndrome, and overwork.

But according to Harvard Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology professor Steven E. Hyman, a former director of the National Institute of Mental Health who served as University provost from 2001 to 2011, “nobody really

ally understand this.”

‘More Than a Stopgap’

At first glance, students seeking help on Harvard’s campus are presented with a wide range of options. And while the past decade has seen a steady decline in mental health on college campuses around the country, it has also seen an explosion of resources within Harvard’s gates.

Numerous initiatives, centers, and groups, ranging in the scope and focus of their services, beckon students to leverage their hotlines or drop-in hours. A significant number of these resources share a common theme: They are operated by students.

Indigo Peer Counseling, for example, aims to support undergraduates from intersectional backgrounds. Harvard ECHO specializes in issues of body image, exercise, and eating disorders, and Contact Peer Counseling focuses on experiences around LGBTQ+ identities.

Harvard Undergraduate Group Peer Therapy and Room 13 also offer spaces for students to receive non-directive therapy, even through the early hours of the morning.

Though an important part

able professional counseling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It was very clear that there was just not enough resources to go around,” Bhat said.

“Some people definitely were there because they had to wait too long to get CAMHS,” Bhat said. “But a lot of people, I think, just preferred having a peer to talk to.”

Hyman said peer counseling is “more than a stopgap” for the dearth of professional help at Harvard, describing it as a viable option for struggling students in its own right. “It really helps,” he said.

Still, if a student is in search of accessible, professional therapy through the school, there is just one option on campus: CAMHS.

Ideally, students in need of professional therapy can consult CAMHS for an initial consultation — appointments where clinicians help students figure out a best course of action — before being matched with an available therapist for multiple sessions, funded by the annual student health fee, mandatory for most students.

Resources at CAMHS, however, have drawn criticism in recent years, with students pointing to weekslong wait times and a perceived lack of diversity among

One student, whom The Crimson provided anonymity to discuss private health matters, said they were hospitalized for a selfharm injury in fall 2021 after they were unable to secure a CAMHS appointment.

“It was gonna be a three-week wait, and that was not doable for me,” the student said. “It’s just this really big, bad thing that I feel like could have been avoided if I was able to get care earlier.”

In October 2022, CAMHS announced the launch of a partnership with TimelyCare, a Texas-based telehealth provider, to help connect students with therapy more immediately. Around this time, CAMHS also announced it would hire additional staff to conduct initial consultations.

Tsai said she was able to secure her first appointment with TimelyCare “within a week or so” and met with three different providers before settling on her current therapist.

“My experience with her has been pretty great,” Tsai said of her provider.

According to Barbara Lewis, senior director of student mental health at CAMHS, the move was made in part to free up capacity for Harvard clinicians to conduct more therapy and see patients in need of in-person care.

To date, 2,785 students —

SELLERS HILL AND NIA L. ORAKWUE CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

TENUOUS TRUST. Harvard’s mental health care has improved in recent years. But some students remain apprehensive.

Suhaas M. Bhat ’24 Co-Founder of HUGPT

Some people definitely were there because they had to wait too long to get CAMHS. But a lot of people, I think, just preferred having a peer to talk to.

Rae P. Trainer ‘26 Student at Harvard College

Another patient gave me the shirt off of her back because I wasn’t allowed on campus to get any of my stuff.

about 12.7 percent of the student body — have registered with TimelyCare and logged a total of 6,418 visits, according to HUHS spokesperson Tiffanie A. Green.

‘Difficult to Get Unlabeled’

Selorna A. Ackuayi ’25, co-president of CAMHS’ student-led Active Minds program, said many students are unfamiliar with their mental health options at Harvard, despite an increase in resources and shrinking wait times. Active Minds aims to promote the use of these resources.

“By the time you get to your junior year, you don’t remember all the details of the stuff you were told during one weekend of orientation your freshman year.” said Ackuayi, a Crimson Arts editor.

“As the years go on, as students become more busy, they’re not as aware of resources as maybe they were at the very beginning.”

Ackuayi said she believes many students do not seek out mental health resources because they anticipate long wait times.

“The first thing they’re saying is, ‘Oh, I heard that there’s long wait times’ or ‘I heard that it takes forever,’” Ackuayi said. “There’s a lot of this word-of-mouth talk about some negative experiences that people have had with CAMHS as far as having to wait for an appointment.”

“I would say that’s probably one of the largest barriers other than maybe a fear of not being able to find a clinician that works

for them,” she added. Several interviewed students highlighted another reason why undergraduates might hesitate to consult resources on campus: a fear of being placed on mandatory leave. This factor was also noted in the 2020 task force report on student mental health.

“Leaves of absence seem to be a source of fear and anxiety for some students,” the report reads.

“Students reported hesitation to disclose their mental health challenges to Harvard-employed counselors and others in the administration, fearing the possibility that they would be asked to leave if they were deemed ‘unsafe’ by CAMHS.”

According to the 2023-24 Harvard College handbook, students can be placed on a leave of absence following “circumstances that raise serious concerns about the student’s health or wellbeing and reasonably call into question their ability to function as a student in the Harvard College environment,” among other reasons.

Mandatory leave policies like Harvard’s have come under additional scrutiny in recent years.

Critics have claimed these policies further deprive students of care and peer support when they need it most, including barring them from campus organizations and revoking their student health insurance — which is necessary for some students to afford therapy.

At Yale University, activism fueled by a string of student suicides resulted in the school

changing its forced leave policies earlier this year. Now, Yale students on forced leave retain their insurance and in most cases are allowed to visit campus.

Harvard has yet to adopt similar policies, though it currently has no blanket policy on the extent to which students on leave are restricted from campus.

Trainer — the student who was placed on involuntary medical leave — said she learned her forced leave was triggered by statements she made to her proctor that were perceived as concerning.

“I’m told I said something like, ‘I want to die,’” Trainer said. “If I had been sober, probably what I would have said is ‘Oh my God, my proctor is here. I’m so embarrassed. I want to die.’”

Trainer said that “once you were labeled as a suicide risk, it is very, very difficult to get unlabeled as one.”

“It was like, because I fell under that category of psych patients, I could not be trusted either by Harvard or by my doctors,” she added.

Hyman said Harvard’s leave policies were not “created for the purpose of cruelty,” but he said the policies should “show a certain act of caring and empathy” in their implementation.

Tsai, despite her largely positive experience utilizing TimelyCare, said she did worry that the statements made to her therapist would make it back to the school.

“I basically went into every single link I could find on the website

from the student or patient portal to see if there was something that would link it to the school,” Tsai said. “I also went into my HUHS patient portal to see if somehow TimelyCare records could show up there.”

“I couldn’t find them, so I felt okay enough with that,” she said.

‘Feel Safe to Seek Care’

Improving the reality and perception of mental health support on campus has few quick and easy answers.

CAMHS has run up against both funding and recruitment constraints to increasing its workforce. For one, hiring additional trained therapists reduces the number of specialists available for the surrounding area, which already sees strained resource networks.

Hyman said Harvard’s support network is likely already better equipped than Cambridge and the Greater Boston area.

“The University is working to buffer students from these really grim facts of an inadequate number of well-trained mental health professionals,” Hyman said.

Even necessary additional programs also run up against budget constraints. CAMHS Cares, born in part out of feedback from the task force report, is currently funded by a philanthropic donation from the parent of a Harvard undergraduate.

The 2020 task force report also suggests several preventa-

PEER MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

CONTACT PEER COUNSELING

Contact supports student mental health, especially as it relates to LGBTQ+ identities.

tive measures, including stronger mental health messaging in course syllabi and more frequent check-ins with students. In addition, the report pointed toward a renewed focus on creating a “roadmap” of where to find support on campus.

“It is still the case that many students, faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and staff do not know where to start when they or a student they know needs help,” the report reads.

Despite administrative initiatives to provide more accessible and higher quality mental health care to students, Tsai said she believes it is most important to create an environment in which students “feel safe to seek care.”

“No matter how many resources you provide, no matter how much you invest in this or that, if people don’t feel like they can trust those resources, they’re not going to use them or they will only use them out of desperation,” Tsai said.

Trainer said there is still work to be done on combating stigma and adopting improved policies and practices around placing students on forced leave.

“I think we need to continue to fight stigma on campus, but that goes beyond just putting up posters and saying, ‘If you’re struggling, we’re here for you,’” she said. “Words matter, but actions matter more.”

sellers.hill@thecrimson.com nia.orakwue@thecrimson.com

HUGPT addresses concerns of anxiety and depression among students on campus through peer counseling. The organization is supervised by CAMHS and utilizes Interpersonal Psychotherapy methods.

ECHO is a space for students who are struggling with disordered eating, body image issues, or other concerns to receive support from trained students.

Confidential nondirective, non-judgmental peer counseling group providing specialized services for students from intersectional backgrounds.

In collaboration with the Office of Gender Equity, this group offers professionallytrained peer counseling on issues of gender-based violence, psychological and physical harassment, and relationships, among others.

Out of the basement of Thayer Hall, a freshman dormitory, Room 13 provides peer counseling services for Harvard undergraduates on a wide range of topics from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. each night. The service also offers a hotline and group listening workshops.

Source: Lipson et al. 2022

HOUSE LIFE

Currier’s New Interhouse Dining Restrictions

CROWDED DHALL. Currier House dining hall will now be closed to non-residents on Monday nights.

BY ELLA L. JONES AND SOPHIA C. SCOTT CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Currier House has implemented new interhouse dining restrictions as dining workers face an “overwhelming workload,” the House’s faculty deans announced in an email Monday afternoon.

The House will now close its dining hall to non-Currier students on Monday nights, in addition to continuing existing interhouse restrictions on Thursday and Sunday nights.

“On most nights, they are responsible for feeding and caring for more than double the number of students from Currier,” Currier House Faculty Deans Latanya A. Sweeney and Sylvia I. Barrett wrote in the email.

“While we’ve always been proud of our fantastic dining hall — the dedicated staff and delicious food — it’s become clear that they are stretched thin, often running out of food, and unable to provide the level of service our community deserves and has come to expect,” they added.

Currier resident Evan J. Jolley

’24 said he is a “big fan” of the new restrictions for students and dining hall staff alike. “I know a lot of people don’t like interhouse restrictions because it messes up their dinner plans or makes them go to a dining hall they don’t want to, but frankly, it’s ridiculous how many people come to Currier d-hall,” Jolley said.

“It’s unfair to the workers of our d-hall to have to cook food for double the amount of people that they’re hired to do so for,” he added. “I’ve heard multiple workers make comments about interhouse kids trashing our dining hall and then leaving.”

We have two people working in the dishroom to serve over

Patricia C. Machado Currier House card checker

Hashem H. Abdou ’24 and Nosher Ali Khan ’24 also said they support the new restrictions, but they voiced concern about their impact on non-Currier residents.

“I think one of the things that sets Currier apart is the d-hall. It’s the fact that people come here from all around the Quad, and

also sometimes from the rest of Harvard houses to eat and meet other people. And it’s such a nice environment. So I think it’s a little bit of a shame,” Abdou said.

Abdou added that students should be “empathetic towards the Currier staff,” adding that Harvard should invest in more HUDS resources.

“Maybe Harvard could identify hot spots — like what popular dining halls are there — and add staff based on that,” Khan suggested.

Currier House card checker Patricia C. Machado says the number of students choosing to dine in the house has increased in recent years.

“Years ago, when I started here, our counts for dinner were a little bit over 200. Today, we are over 400. Last night I did 470,” she said. “Our kitchen’s small, we don’t have enough staff to have all these people, to finish our jobs, to provide a perfect job.”

“We have two people working in the dishroom to serve over 400 people,” she said.

Currier chef Ali Malekani said the crowded dining halls can also impact the quality of the food.

“From our point of view, if you overwhelm the system, what happens a lot is you end up getting a lot of bad meals,” he said. “I always say it’s better to give no meal than a bad meal.”

Men’s Coaches See Higher Budgets, Pay

BY PATON D. ROBERTS AND SOPHIA C. SCOTT CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Machado said the House staff would be happy to serve more people if Harvard provided “more fridges, bigger kitchen, more staff, and more seats.”

“We’ll serve the whole city if they want to come in, because we love what we do here,” Machado said.

In addition to staffing concerns, Currier students said they often have trouble finding seats.

“In no world should my blocking group go to the dining hall at 7 p.m. and there not be a single space for us, or the only space for us is crammed in next to another large group at the edge of the table,” Jolley said.

Lisa Leonard, who works in the Currier dining hall, also said the issue is not with workload, but rather with insufficient resources.

“We’re not tired. It’s just we gotta get the food,” Leonard said.

In response to criticisms of Currier’s resources, Harvard spokesperson Jonathan Palumbo wrote in an emailed statement that “there are ongoing conversations to address the challenges.”

“There’s a reason why we have the best food, and it’s because the dining hall workers just make amazing food and they take pride in their work,” Jolley said.

ella.jones@thecrimson.com sophia.scott@thecrimson.com

LGBTQ Students Criticize GSAS Renaming

BY HANA ROSTAMI CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences was renamed for billionaire Kenneth C. Griffin ’89 following his $300 million donation in April — and soon, every recognized club at the school will also bear his name.

Current and former members of the LGBTQ@GSAS association denounced the name change, pointing to Griffin’s support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. But some students said the name change requirement is symptomatic of greater issues around LGBTQ+ inclusion at the school.

In March 2022, DeSantis’ administration passed legislation — dubbed by opponents as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill — prohibiting teaching topics around sexual orientation and gender identity from pre-K through third grade. Griffin has publicly supported the original bill, though in May, Griffin said through a spokesperson that he disagreed with a new version of the bill that applies to education through 12th grade.

According to the 2023-24 GSAS student group handbook, student organizations must modify their name by the Sept. 30 club renewal deadline to maintain official recognition.

The name of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences changed both formally and informally as part of the legal terms between Griffin and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, meaning that all student organizations must include “Griffin” in their names, ac-

cording to a GSAS spokesperson.

Jessica W. Chen, the president of the Graduate Student Council, said student organizations were given “three options of the name change,” allowing for flexibility in how to include “Griffin” in the organization’s name.

Still, members of LGBTQ@ GSAS said conversations are ongoing over whether the organization will abide by — or push back against — the naming requirements.

tional priorities,” they added.

Pinkham also wrote that because of LGBTQ@GSAS’ affiliation with the GSAS Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Office, the group had “very little latitude to criticize Harvard’s retrograde approach to supporting queer student life or enact any meaningful institutional change.”

“Ken has supported candidates from both parties whom he believes advances these important values and has both publicly and privately engaged with politicians from both parties who undermine them,” Scharnick wrote.

Harvard paid the head coaches of its men’s varsity teams roughly $30,000 more on average than their counterparts leading women’s teams last year, according to a yearly report filed by the Athletics Department.

In 2022, the average salary for the head coach of a men’s team was $137,709, while the head coach of a women’s team earned $107,216, according to data reported to the U.S. Department of Education. On average, assistant coaches for men’s teams earned $63,469 versus $51,682 for assistant coaches of women’s teams.

“All coaches for each sport are evaluated on the same compensation criteria,” Harvard spokesperson Jonathan Palumbo wrote in an emailed statement.

Since 2018, salaries for Harvard Athletics head coaches have grown steadily, with the gap between the men’s and women’s teams narrowing only slightly. In the 2015-16 academic year, women’s team head coaches made approximately $34,000 less than head coaches of men’s teams — in 2022, that difference stood at $30,493.

In comparison to other Ivy League schools, Harvard’s salary discrepancy ranks among the smallest, trailing only Princeton. In 2022, Princeton paid the head coaches of its men’s teams an average of $172,495, in comparison to $143,987 for women’s team coaches.

Harvard publishes compensation data in compliance with the 1994 Congressional Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act, a component of Title IX that prohibits sex discrimination in athletic opportunities for universities that receive federal funds.

Title IX is a federal law that mandates equal treatment and opportunities for male and female student-athletes within educational institutions like Harvard. This encompasses providing equal facilities, equipment, chances to participate in sports, and support services.

The majority of Harvard’s student-athletes are male. According to the Ed Department data, there were 663 male athletes compared to 528 female athletes at Harvard in the 202122 academic year. During that academic year, the Athletics Department allocated $14,400,428 to men’s teams and $10,045,345 to women’s teams for operating expenses. Notably, men’s teams spent $821,855 on recruiting, a substantial amount more than women’s teams, which spent $377,273 in the same year. In the 2021-22 academic year, 1,191 undergraduates participated in varsity sports out of 7,095 students enrolled at the College.

During the 2020-21 EADA reporting year, the Covid-19 pandemic precluded Harvard from holding any intercollegiate athletic competitions, but the University spent $147,178 on recruiting athletes to men’s teams and $45,879 on recruiting for women’s teams, for a total of $193,057 overall.

In 2017, the Athletics Department conducted an investigation into gender equity in athletics following high-profile scandals in previous years involving men’s sports teams at Harvard.

The investigation’s conclusion in September 2017 led to revisions to the process of filing gender inequity complaints and additional conflict resolution training for coaches and staff. paton.roberts@thecrimson.com sophia.scott@thecrimson.com

It tells queer and trans graduate students exactly how Harvard feels about us.

Noah J. Pinkham, a Ph.D. candidate in the History Department who previously served on the board of LGBTQ@GSAS, wrote in an email that the naming policy felt like a “sick joke.”

“The mandate to change the organization’s name is actually a perfect encapsulation of the long-standing dynamic between LGBTQ@GSAS and Harvard’s administration,” Pinkham wrote. “Forcibly adding ‘Griffin’ to the organization’s name will only serve to make these dynamics all the more visible.”

“In other words, it tells queer and trans graduate students exactly how Harvard feels about us, and where our lives, dignity, and safety fall on its scale of institu-

Ashley E. Cavanagh, a fifthyear graduate student and the president of LGBTQ@GSAS, said the required name change is “quite frustrating” because Griffin is a “known anti-LGBTQ figure.”

GSAS spokesperson Bailey V. Snyder wrote in a statement that the school “believes that student groups are critical to the graduate student experience and values true partnerships.”

“The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging (EDIB) is committed to creating a welcoming community among all students. Trained staff works closely with student leaders from multiple student groups, providing administrative support and serving in an advisory capacity,” she wrote.

Snyder also wrote that in addition to providing funding, GSAS offers “grant-writing support, professional development opportunities” and supports clubs “through attendance at meetings and events.”

In a May statement, Jaquelyn M. Scharnick ’06, a spokesperson for Griffin and former Crimson News editor, wrote that Griffin is a “passionate supporter of individual rights and freedoms.”

Pinkham wrote in the email that they believe the GSAS administration tokenizes the experiences of queer students at the school, pointing to social media profiles and pride flags in Lehman Hall, the GSAS student center.

“As the mismatch between what GSAS says about its support for queer students and what it does in practice became increasingly clear to me, I no longer felt comfortable being trotted as proof of the institution’s purported commitment to sexual and gender ‘diversity,’” Pinkham wrote. “I ultimately made the decision to leave LGBTQ@GSAS and direct my energy into organizing with HGSU and trans organizations unaffiliated with Harvard.”

Cavanagh said she feels the abrupt name change suggests that “Harvard doesn’t prioritize GSAS and isn’t really thinking about the needs of the GSAS community,” pointing to a “lack of transparency” about how the donation will benefit students.

“There are a lot of folks within GSAS who are the direct people that I reach out to with these sorts of concerns, and I think they are amazing, and they really hear students and understand, but sadly, there’s nothing they can do,” Cavanagh said.

hana.rostami@thecrimson.com

Source: EADA Data (2017-2022). SOPHIA C. SCOTT — CRIMSON DESIGNER

Source: EADA Data (2022). SOPHIA C. SCOTT — CRIMSON DESIGNER

Harvard Alumni Club of Brazil Launches Scholarship Partnership

The Harvard Alumni Club of Brazil launched a new partnership on Tuesday with Brazilian nonprofit Fundação Estudar to provide scholarships for local students studying abroad, including those admitted to the College. The partnership will support the general scholarship programs of Fundação Estudar. This year, the foundation is sponsoring six Harvard candidates, some of whom will receive fund-

ing from the club. Established in 1991 by Jorge Paulo Lemann ’61, Harvard Business School graduate Marcel H. Telles, and Beto Sicupira, Fundação Estudar provides educational and career programs and scholarships to Brazilian students studying abroad. The club and the foundation jointly organized a fundraising dinner Tuesday to announce their plans for collaboration. The event included a panel discussion by Harvard alumni on advancing entrepreneurship through educating Brazilian students abroad.

Edith Bertoletti, president of

the Harvard Alumni Club of Brazil, said the club is hoping to expand educational opportunities for Brazilian students through fundraising efforts in support of Fundação Estudar.

“I think that everyone that had the chance to go to Harvard would like to incentivize someone to go to Harvard,” said Bertoletti, a graduate of the Law School.

According to Anamaíra Spaggiari, the managing director of Fundação Estudar, the organization’s programs and resources reach more than 12 million Brazilians per year.

João Henrique Teixeira San-

tos ’25, an international student from Brazil, said Fundação Estudar has helped many of his friends access opportunities to study abroad.

“To even know about what to do, it takes a lot of time and knowing the right people and doing the right things and being in the right places,” he said.

“I’m glad that they help us Brazilians that don’t have that much resources to come here and to explore the universities in the U.S. and in the world,” Santos added.

Though this year’s fundraising supports a general scholarship program, Bertoletti said she

hopes Harvard alumni in Brazil can build a scholarship program dedicated to Harvard applicants.

“Of course, we want to focus on Harvard, but we also want to bring that as an example to other alumni communities,” Bertoletti said.

“Through these types of initiatives, we believe that we can bring people from all over Brazil to dream about Harvard,” she added.

Spaggiari said Brazil lacks top global universities, which drives an increased need to access elite education abroad. By connecting students to top education opportunities, the foundation and

the club hope students can contribute positively to Brazil in the future.

“We do believe that leaders in Brazil — especially those who have access to the best universities — they need to give back, they need to feel responsible to make a change,” Spaggiari said.

“Our big dream here is actually to create better leaders — more relevant leaders — that will be in charge in the biggest positions in Brazil, take decisions that will have an impact for all of the society,” she added. alex.chou@thecrimson.com ayumi.nagatomi@thecrimson.com

THE HARVARD CRIMSON

To the Future Class of 2028: Be Yourself — All of Yourself

DISSENT Nix the Alumni Interview

al interviewers seasoned in interviewing are more likely to avoid. Combined with the current arbitrariness of the interviewer assignment process, this could aggravate the lack of overarching standards that makes interview evaluations unfair.

BE PROUD. It’s not your job to edit your life into a squeaky clean narrative so that Harvard can dodge the hard problems of post-affirmative action admissions.

To the future Class of 2028: We don’t know you yet, but we’re excited for the chance to.

We imagine that you come from all walks of life. Your diverse experiences, interests, and perspectives will enrich our campus community with flavors and fervors we’ve never seen before. We can’t wait to meet you and learn from you (we’re selfishly crossing our fingers that you might deign to check out our Editorial Board).

Unfortunately, the Supreme Court has failed you. With a few deliberate pen strokes, they have effectively struck down affirmative action. We have lost the procedural groundwork to create the kind of diverse campus from which we all benefit. And you, Harvard’s newest batch of applicants, have lost an important avenue with which to convey your unique lived experience in the already convoluted process of college applications.

But while the Supreme Court has failed, Harvard doesn’t have to. While dire, the ruling striking down affirmative action offers a small glimmer of hope, through a qualification in the decision confirming that universities may still consider “an applicant’s discussion of how race affected the applicant’s life.” As conservative as the Court may be, even they recognize that a color-blind view of America is not a reality.

The Court’s caveat seems to have informed recent changes to Harvard’s application, from new essay questions to new interview instructions. According to this year’s guidebook on interviewing Class of 2028 applicants, Harvard’s alumni interviewers may not consider race or ethnicity when evaluating applicants — although evaluations that show how applicants’ racial identities have shaped their interests are permissible.

These new interview guidelines — just like their surrounding college admissions process — likely induce stress and fear in prospective Har-

vard applicants, especially students of color. You may be questioning what parts of your identity are permissible for an interview, or frantically reorienting your plan to present yourself.

BY RUBY J.J. HUANG, JACOB M. MILLER, AND IVAN TOTH-ROHONYI BY THE CRIMSON EDITORIAL BOARD

If you are doing any of the above: Stop. It’s not your job to edit your life into a squeaky clean narrative so that Harvard can dodge the hard problems of post-affirmative action admissions.

Be loud. Be proud. Be unabashedly open. Share your story, your life experiences, your sense of self. Say exactly what you would if you’d never heard of the new guidelines. Do not self-censor. Leave the legal logistics of what can and cannot make it into your final evaluation to the admissions office.

In an application process that is largely rote and depersonalized — where you collapse your being into essays and transcripts to shoot into the ether without knowing who, if anyone, is reading them on the other side — the interview is your best opportunity to be the fullest version of yourself, in front of a flesh-and-blood person who truly wants to hear from you. Harvard interviews the vast majority of its applicants. Take advantage of this chance.

In turn, we ask alumni interviewers to leverage the allowance made in both the Supreme Court’s ruling and Harvard’s interview guidelines. Let your applicants talk about race as it has impacted their lives, and note that down in your evaluations.

There is no sweeping solution when institutions conceived to protect justice have instead chipped away at it. From the legal perspective, determining how identity can factor into college admissions in our post-affirmative action world will be difficult. But from the perspective of those applying and being evaluated, race is an inextricable part of their lived experiences, as it is for our collective life at Harvard. We shouldn’t walk on eggshells around our identities.

–This staff editorial solely represents the majority view of The Crimson Editorial Board. It is the product of discussions at regular Editorial Board meetings. In order to ensure the impartiality of our journalism, Crimson editors who choose to opine and vote at these meetings are not involved in the reporting of articles on similar topics.

Following the Supreme Court’s summer ruling effectively ending affirmative action in university admissions, Harvard instructed its alumni interviewers not to consider race when evaluating applicants.

For our Board, this is a sad turn of events. The alumni interview — in their view, the best opportunity for students to showcase their full personality to admissions officers — has become subject to red tape around discussions of race. But this argument overlooks a flaw that has always festered in Harvard’s application system: alumni interviews themselves.

On paper, alumni interviews are a perfect mechanism for the admissions committee to construct a clearer picture of applicants beyond a smattering of scores, a resume of extracurriculars, and a tasting menu of essays they have written.

In practice, though, Harvard’s alumni interviews are anything but perfect.

Implicit biases may also lead more insidiously to prejudiced judgments of applicants. Subconscious racial bias is a pervasive phenomenon that could easily spill into biased interviewer recommendations.

If the Editorial Board truly supports more objective admissions criteria such as SAT scores, then the Board must also reject the subjectivity inherent to the current system of alumni interviews.

Standardized testing has its own set of well-documented and researched flaws, but at least those flaws are well understood.

As for alumni interviews, how can we establish a reasonable baseline to judgments of character, when these judgments can vary dramatically based on the quirks of an interviewer?

Since the fall of affirmative action, we remain especially skeptical of interviews as a net beneficial admissions tool. After all, the case brought

OP-ED

A decentralized alumni interview system introduces unfair randomness to the college application process. Since Harvard’s alumni interviewers are volunteers who appear to receive minimal guidance beyond a long, dense guidebook from the admissions office and a single training session when they first volunteer or return from a hiatus, standards used to evaluate applicants could vary depending on the interviewer.

We don’t want to see any applicant’s chances of admission dropping simply because they were assigned a tough alum.

Next, students applying from locations with fewer alumni interviewers may not be assigned an interview at all. In particular, this can pose a problem for international applicants, who are already navigating a less-than-intuitive process of applying to study in an entirely new country.

Such an unequal process, where students from some locales miss out on the opportunity to shine in an interview, is not justifiable in a process that should evaluate all applicants equally.

Furthermore, alumni can become interviewers without any background in college admissions. The only eligibility criterion listed on Harvard’s website is that alumni interviewers hold a degree from one of Harvard’s schools. The three of us — we hope — will have earned a Harvard degree within the next several years, but we struggle to see how that will qualify us to determine who deserves admission to Harvard College.

Beyond that, with only one required training session under their belts, it seems likely for alumni interviewers to have implicit biases. It’s easy to imagine a doctor subconsciously preferring applicants who want to study medicine, or an interviewer bonding with an applicant over a shared love for Shakespeare.

Alumni interviewers without rigorous training could allow these personal interests to blind them in a way that profession -

How Harvard Makes Us Foreigners

BY ANANYA GANESH

When I came to Harvard from India, I did so with the intention of studying the developing world. I understood the irony of going to the United States to learn how to contribute to South Asia, but when Harvard came calling it was very hard to refuse.

I tried to make up for this cross-ocean selling out by filling my schedule with classes that assuaged my guilt: a history seminar on political independence and economic development in Africa, public policy and politics of the Middle East, and Indian Literature in Translation, a kind of lifeline to home. But all I received in many of my courses was a filtered, diluted, adulterated version of the Global South — the equivalent of watching a yellow-filter movie set in the slums of Dhaka or the saturated favelas of Rio.

To blame Harvard alone for my dislocation, however, would be unjust.

The international students Harvard admits are rarely the ones who can truly offer this institution the maximum amount of diversity. The kids at my school who applied to colleges abroad knew the U.S. intimately already. They watched American movies, listened to English music, and barely spoke their native languages — and I was no different. I did not grow up on the streets of Mumbai or shopping in Chandni-Chowk in Old Delhi but instead ate Dom-

ino’s pizza under the light of the skyscrapers of Bengaluru’s booming I.T. sector.

Knowing that we would probably apply abroad from the moment we entered high school meant we shaped our lives to the standards of international colleges. We watched documentaries about the British forces at the Somme in our history classes, spent time on Reddit researching the PSAT and the SAT, looked at all the extracurricular activities that kids in America were doing and mimicked them.

mal effort?

This ability to assimilate from afar is a privilege. It requires the resources and ability to engage with a completely different culture from one’s own. The students who can do this are already removed from the vast majority of their country’s population, and therefore their culture and way of life. Harvard misses swaths of talented students from around the world because those students believe they would never be able to get in, and thus don’t even apply.

This generalization is obviously not true of every student and every country, but is definitely a clear trend in the international student body, particularly from the developing world. Close your eyes and imagine the average Indian. Whether inspired by Slumdog Millionaire or riding a cow, that person looks a lot more like the median Indian — even the median urban Indian — than any of the students I know from India who were accepted to the College Class of 2026.

before the Supreme Court originally emerged as a lawsuit alleging that Harvard discriminated against Asian American applicants by assigning them lower personality scores compared to white applicants — personality scores that were in part determined by alumni interviews.

Given that this allegation of anti-Asian discrimination was not resolved by the Supreme Court’s summer ruling, we believe the interview component of the admissions process requires a greater rehaul than mere compliance with the Court’s decision.

The Board addresses readers applying to Harvard this fall, as though prospective students have any power to fix a flawed admissions process. We, instead, turn to the College, providing two ways in which administrators can improve the interview component.

Either fix the interview — or nix it.

If the College would like to keep the interview component, then it should provide professional interviews to all applicants and standardize interviewing procedures to the best of its ability.

If the College cannot guarantee equal treatment for all applicants, then it should not offer interviews at all.

The alumni interview has always been broken. As the University reckons with its post-affirmative action admissions system, today is as good a time as any to right the biggest wrong in the process: the alumni interview.

–Ruby J.J. Huang ’24, an Editorial Comp Director, is a History concentrator in Leverett House. Jacob M. Miller ’25, an Associate Editorial Editor, is a Mathematics concentrator in Lowell House. Ivan Toth-Rohonyi ’25, a Crimson Editorial editor, is a Sociology and Computer Science concentrator in Adams House.

Dissenting Opinions: Occasionally, The Crimson Editorial Board is divided about the opinion we express in a staff editorial. In these cases, dissenting board members have the opportunity to express their opposition to staff opinion.

but never really children of our country’s soil. Going to an institution like Harvard pulls us further away from a home we are already hesitant to call our own.

Perhaps, then, what I should aim for is not to be acted upon by Harvard but to act upon it. If I don’t make the active effort to find the classes that focus on what I want to learn, can I really complain about Economics 10b: “Principles of Economics” slides that contrast suited Americans smiling at the camera with Indians fixing a bullock cart? Harvard does not make this easy. In many courses, the non-U.S. is usually only important as a counterpoint, a mirror to our real focus. At best, these classes will devote a slide to the Global not-West every few sessions, a single lecture in a semester, sometimes even just a footnote in a reading.

The pressure to look and act like other applicants, even in a system that supposedly encouraged individuality, persisted — because how were the admissions officers supposed to be able to understand our uniqueness if it was not couched in language and experiences they could understand with mini-

But when we come here, we are asked to speak for our country. I have never felt more Indian than when I have been here, alone, and faced with incessant questions from other students about my home country. And at the same time, I have never felt more Americanized, learning how to view my home through the eyes of neoliberal economics and modernization theory.

All our lives, many of us felt like we lived with one foot in each world, never really global citizens

But what Harvard will always have is opportunities, resources, information — if I go that bit further and look for them. It will have rooms full of census data from the developing world, hiding under Lamont. Centers devoted to studying parts of the Global South shelved above coffee shops in the Square. Indian poet A.K. Ramanujan once said that tradition is not a birthright, but that it has to be “earned and repossessed.” Perhaps coming to Harvard can be my opportunity to discover it, reimagine it, and begin to live it.

–Ananya Ganesh ’26, a Crimson Editorial editor, lives in Leverett House.

The ability to assimilate from afar is a privilege. It requires the resources and ability to engage with a completely different culture from one’s own.

Such an unequal process, where students from some locales miss out on the opportunity to shine in an interview, is not justifiable in a process that should evaluate all applicants equally.

COLUMN SEVEN SISTERS AND THE OLD BOYS’ CLUB

Of Writers and Rowers

OPENING DOORS. Radcliffe rowing represented a history of women in collegiate athletics, and that legacy was uniquely preserved in the program’s name and colors.

BY MCKENNA E. MCKRELL

Iknew nothing about rowing before I came to Harvard. The boathouses, the regattas, and the long, long history of crew at the college were all foreign to me.

But I quickly learned.

As a first year, I made friends who were on the crew team. In an attempt to understand the sport, I asked a billion questions and even bought a pair of binoculars.

At their first race of the season, I was told that

the fact, if you know what I mean, as a woman, but I remember also feeling an incredible responsibility to help the paper think more about representation and diversity,” she added.

Today, a majority of Crimson editors identify as women, and we are in the longest stretch of female presidents in the paper’s history.

In many organizations — like The Crimson, or Hasty Pudding Theatricals, which went co-ed as late as 2018 — women have made something

COLUMN

LEAFING BY

The Best-Kept SECret

INADVERTENT DISCOVERY. Venture to the Engineering Yard and take in its serene beauty.

BY ANEESH C. MUPPIDI

As a freshman, I vowed to stay as far from the Science Engineering Complex as possible. Fast forward to my junior year, and I’m practically married to the place, clocking in from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. I’ve become friendly with the FlyBy lady, begged security guards to help locate my perpetually lost AirPods, and even splurged on a BlueBike membership for late-night treks back. I wouldn’t be surprised if I soon find myself taking advantage of those SEC showers — such is the life of a Computer Science concentrator!

During one of my long days at the complex, an inadvertent exploration led to a discovery. Only after three long years, and countless hours in the SEC, did I stumble upon the tiny Engineering Yard tucked away in the back.

Stepping into the yard feels like entering a different world: Lush greenery envelops you in a vivid tapestry of various hues. The air is filled with the fresh scent of foliage, a gentle reminder of nature’s presence amidst the urban landscape. The soft crunch of gravel underfoot guides you along a meandering walkway, inviting you to explore the yard’s many nooks.

The tranquility of the outdoor space is palpable, with the distant hum of Allston serving as the only reminder of the world outside.

novels? And most importantly, where’s the spikeball?

Despite the SEC’s grandeur, mentions of it still seem to evoke images of endless slabs of concrete and problem sets. Why, given its architectural brilliance and natural splendor, does it remain overshadowed by the charm of Harvard’s more traditional spots?

Maybe the answer to this has everything to do with us.

Many students that come to the SEC for class quickly zoom in, attend their lecture, then rush out to begin the next phase of the academic marathon. In this frenetic pace, the serene beauty of the Engineering Yard becomes nothing more than a green blur.

It’s sad to think most of us STEM concentrators, surrounded by one of the most stunning modern architectural marvels on campus, barely take a moment to appreciate it.

the oars for each team were distinct: When the men rowed, you looked for Harvard’s crimson, but when the women raced by, you were looking for Radcliffe’s black and white.

At first, I was confused by the difference. Why wouldn’t both teams be marked by the College’s colors?

But a letter to the editor written by then-captain Cecile U. Tucker ’91 published in 1991 filled in the gaps: Radcliffe rowing represented a history of women in collegiate athletics, and that legacy was uniquely preserved in the program’s name and colors.

***

Many of the women I spoke to for the first installment of this column could not recall significant involvement in extracurriculars or activities while at Harvard — they went to class, had jobs, and spent time with friends.

Though she wouldn’t describe it as exclusion, Gay W. Seidman ’78 — first woman to lead The Crimson — told me there were “different expectations of what men and women would do in college and how they would spend their time.”

Today, the campus culture has changed: Women compete in 20 D1 sports, write for and lead one of the country’s oldest college newspapers, and have carved out space for themselves within a number of organizations on and off campus. In 1976, over a hundred years after the paper’s founding, Seidman was elected as the first female president of The Crimson.

Though women were first accepted as “correspondents” for The Crimson in 1947, it took nearly 30 years for one to stand at the organization’s helm. It is easy for me to simplify history: Women were shut out for ages, and then at long last, they were let in. A single hard fought battle. My conversations with Seidman and other women tell a more rounded narrative.

“It wasn’t discussed in terms of breaking the glass ceiling. It was discussed in terms of, ‘We need to open these doors. We need to show that this can happen,’” Seidman told me.

Seidman recalled the women who had come before her at The Crimson — especially the female managing editors who led the newspaper’s coverage — and the widespread support that came from many colleagues as the elections for president neared.

Despite opening this door to the Crimson’s coveted role as president, challenges remained in the years that followed.

“It still seemed hard for people to imagine and kind of get their head around the idea of electing a woman president,” Rebecca L. Walkowitz ’92 told me.

once meant only for men also theirs. In organizations like the Radcliffe Choral Society and sports like rowing, women created space for themselves through Radcliffe, and that independence — preserved today in name — holds power.

“If you were Radcliffe crew, you didn’t have to be Harvard women, you could just be Radcliffe,” Tucker told me.

Tucker rowed for Radcliffe’s heavyweight team as a student, and went on to coach the lightweight program in the early 2000s.

Radcliffe rowing formally began in 1970, and just two years later, the program went on to win the National Championship and represent the United States at the World Championship.

After the “non-merger merger” between Harvard and Radcliffe went into effect in 1971 — beginning to pool resources but keeping the two schools distinct — the rowing team was given a choice to rename itself or remain Radcliffe. The decision to race as Radcliffe with black and white uniforms and oars continues today.

“We were very proud to kind of carry the banner of what the women before us had done in terms of breaking ground to open access to athletic opportunities” Tucker told me.

***

In trying to understand how the Harvard-Radcliffe women made space for themselves outside of dormitories and classrooms, I was struck not by moments of conflict, but those of admiration.

So many of the women I spoke to harkened back to those who came before: the very first Radcliffe rowers with limited resources and respect, the female Crimson editors who came before the first female president, and countless others. “I felt welcomed,” Walkowitz told me. “Older women students — so people who were sophomores, juniors, and seniors who were all women reporters, or women executives — in particular, I felt, reached out to me and supported me, and that made a really big difference.”

None of the women I spoke to told their own story — of athletic success or a heroic first — as a single narrative. It was always a chapter in a longer tale of change.

There is something quite beautiful and comforting in seeing it this way. It is powerful to see your successes in light of trailblazers, while actively paving the way for those coming next.

I read Tucker’s letter to the editor so many months ago — months before we ever spoke about her time with Radcliffe rowing. The letter corrected an article from The Crimson, explaining the significance of the Radcliffe name.

As captivating as the Engineering Yard is, the true marvel lies in the seamless integration of the natural world with the Science and Engineering Complex itself.

Certified as one of the world’s healthiest and most sustainable lab buildings, the SEC has garnered accolades such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum status and the Living Building Challenge Petal certification.

The SEC’s exterior is a masterclass in sustainable design. Large windows flood the interiors with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Advanced solar shading strategies, coupled with a high-performance heat-recovery system, ensure optimal energy efficiency, and a staggering number of plants adorning its interiors and exteriors allow the SEC to not only enhance air quality but also mitigate its carbon footprint.

As you stand in the Engineering Yard, surrounded by nature, with the SEC towering above, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe at what’s been achieved. And let’s be honest: While other nearby universities — ahem, MIT — might boast of their cutting-edge facilities, it’s rare to find one that marries innovation with nature so seamlessly.

Take the balconies, for example. These outdoor oases offer breathtaking views of Cambridge and the Engineering Yard below. Wooden benches invite you to sit and soak in the surroundings, while the scent of flowers wafts through the air.

Still, they seem to be largely undiscovered.

Similarly, the verdancy of the Engineering Yard practically screams, “Lay down! Set up a picnic! Play some spikeball!” And yet, I’ve found myself gazing at the empty area thinking: Where are the picnickers? Students sprawled out with

OP-ED

Stepping into the yard feels like entering a different world: Lush greenery envelops you in a vivid tapestry of various hues.

On the other hand, humanities and social sciences students, with their penchant for poetic landscapes and reading spots, remain largely oblivious to this hidden gem. But maybe that’s for the best. Imagine if word got out. English and Social Studies concentrators, tired of trying to look effortlessly chic while sprawled on the rocky grounds of Harvard Yard or the cold stone steps of Widener Library, might just descend upon the Engineering Yard en masse.

But all jokes aside, perhaps that is exactly the appreciation the SEC deserves.

The Engineering Yard and the SEC stand as another testament to the beauty that is often overshadowed by our busy lives. So, before the chill of winter sets in and the looming dread of midterms takes over — whether you’re knee-deep in convex optimization or lost in literary analysis — take a quick break. Venture to the Engineering Yard and take in its serene beauty. Marvel at its architectural splendor. And breathe.

After all, you don’t need to be a STEM concentrator, you don’t need to squeeze a visit in between the rush of classes, and you certainly don’t need to wait three years to stumble upon it. It’s there, waiting, for everyone.

–Aneesh C. Muppidi ’25 is a Computer Science and Neuroscience concentrator in Lowell House. His column, “Leafing By,” runs biweekly on Thursdays.

A Need for More Light

BY APRIL S. KEYES

I’ve already worn my first sweater of the school year, and it’s gotten cold enough for me to comfortably wear hoodies to bed. The skies appear much darker than this past summer’s, and I often look outside to shadows instead of people. My shoes have been soaked through by unexpected rain, and my backpack has seemingly permanent wet spots from my umbrella. As movies and outings turn into problem sets and essays, it’s easy to let the gradual tide of turning weather pull us under.

We make long, dark walks for late-night office hours, often alone and stressed, shivering and wishing we could just understand our homework from the comfort of our rooms. For many, nighttime walks are filled with unease, the dark doing little to comfort our already anxious minds.

of us know. People who chronically receive less sunlight show more fatigue and symptoms of depression on average, whereas greater outdoor exposure is associated with less anxiety. But do any of us really prioritize getting enough light for ourselves?

As we walk from lecture to section to seminar, we get exposure to natural light for only eight or so minutes at a time. If we’re lucky, we enter a small Science Center room with one large window for everyone to see out of; if we’re not, we are left in one of Harvard’s various basements.

The preservation of Harvard’s ancient buildings has left many of us learning in classrooms with dim interiors, lit only by harsh fluorescents. Even the notably more modern-looking Science Center houses countless classrooms without windows.

Walkowitz, who said she was drawn to Harvard in part because of The Crimson, was selected as the paper’s president in 1991.

“I did feel like certain forms of sexism played into people’s preferences, although it was never phrased that way,” Walkowtiz said. “It wasn’t that transparent. It was more like, ‘Oh, she’s too difficult or she’s too pushy, or she just doesn’t get along with enough people,’ whereas you have this guy and, ‘He seems so affable.’”

Despite these lingering sentiments, Walkowitz ultimately felt welcomed in her new role.

“I remember feeling the really strong support of the other editors of my colleagues. I felt that they had confidence in me,” Walkowitz said.

“I don’t remember feeling challenged after

“Although we are a women’s team, and although we are all undergraduates enrolled at Harvard University, we row for Radcliffe,” Tucker wrote on behalf of the entire team.

Today, that letter, The Crimson, and the women behind them, continue to inform my understanding of how we got here and how things changed. It is not about shattering the glass, but holding the door open for the woman behind you, and thanking those who unlocked it in the first place.

During the day, countless classrooms lack natural lighting, leaving us with the pale yellow glow of artificial bulbs to agitate our already existing headaches. It’s no secret that, despite the excitement of future snow and cozy clothes, the colder months can have serious effects on our well-being. The loss of natural light affects our circadian rhythms, and in turn the level of available serotonin in our brains. Some of us experience trouble sleeping, mood variations, or a mix of both. In more extreme cases, seasonal affective disorder springs depression upon around 5 percent of the American population in colder months. Seasonal depression is more common up north, where we live, likely due to the more noticeable seasonal changes. Studies have also shown that students who come from less seasonal areas are at higher risk of developing symptoms of depression in the winter, meaning we may want to pay closer attention to some of our international and southern peers during these chilly times. Natural light is a generally good thing, as most

There is no easy fix for what unavoidably happens every year. We can’t stop the cold weather from creeping in, and with the current state of our climate, we shouldn’t seriously want to, either. So what is there to do?

I am not telling Harvard to strip down its historical buildings to construct new ones — though they certainly have the money to add more windows. Rather, I am emphasizing our need to make the most out of the sunlight we already rarely get.

Light isn’t going to magically cure us of the stressors of college life; it’s not going to take away our deadlines, our overflowing calendars, or our worries for the future. But prioritizing a little extra sunlight is still worth a shot.

The shifting weather is far too strong for my words to hold a solution, but I can still offer a small piece of advice. Try to take in the sunlight as many times as you can when the sun is still up and people are still milling about. Do homework near big windows, and, if you can, take your calls outside. Your body, and mind, might thank you.

–April S. Keyes ’26, a Crimson Editorial editor, lives in Winthrop House.

–McKenna E. McKrell ’26, a Crimson Editorial Editor, lives in Adams House. Her column, “Seven Sisters and the Old Boys’ Club” runs tri-weekly on Wednesdays.

It is not about shattering the glass, but holding the door open for the woman behind you, and thanking those who unlocked it in the first place.

None of the women I spoke to told their own story — of athletic success or a heroic first — as a single narrative. It was always a chapter in a longer tale of change.

THE HARVARD CRIMSON

OCTOBER 6, 2023

Mass. Governor Praises Harvard

statewide education policy in her first sitdown interview with The Crimson Friday.

‘Our Entire State’s Devoted Partnership’

ing to the University, including for Lavender Graduation, as well as at the Harvard Club of Boston speaker events and regular basketball games.

‘The Partnership Together Really Matters’

BY SALLY E. EDWARDS AND JACK R. TRAPANICK CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Hours after the inauguration of University President Claudine Gay Friday, Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey ’92 told The Crimson that Harvard would have a willing partner in the governor’s office under her administration.

Healey praised the intellectual and social diversity that marked her Harvard experience as she recalled fond memories of her time as a student, adding that she is grateful for the University’s contributions to the state’s critical healthcare and research industries.

Healey’s election in 2022 marked the continuation of a longstanding pipeline from Harvard to the governor’s office — more than 40 percent of Massachusetts’ 72 governors have been Harvard graduates, including Healey and her two predecessors:

Charlie D. Baker ’79 and Deval L. Patrick ’78.

Calling Harvard “an immensely important institution for Massachusetts” in her speech at Gay’s inauguration, Healey elaborated on the state’s relationship with the University in the context of this summer’s Supreme Court decision on affirmative action and

In closing her address, Healey pledged that Gay would have “our entire state’s devoted partnership” as president.

“I mean, it’s in our constitution. John Adams wrote it into our state constitution,” she said, in reference to three articles in the Massachusetts Constitution devoted to Harvard — including one that placed the governor on the University’s second-highest governing body, the Board of Overseers.

Still, Healey said the relationship was both “enshrined in law” and “just part of the regular work and discourse.” Healey pointed to several areas of collaboration between the state and Harvard, including criminal justice reform with the law school and addressing healthcare disparities with the school of public health.

The governor added she has previously spoken with Gay “a number of times,” including to discuss “her vision for the University and my vision for the state and how we can align.”

“As governor, I’m looking to tap into, also, this university and its many, many resources and assets as we think about the challenges that confront us,” she added.

Now well into a political career that included an eight-year run as Massachusetts attorney general, Healey said she still finds herself frequently return-

In her address at Gay’s inauguration, Healey cited “equity in higher education” as a key point of collaboration between academia and government to “guide our state’s future.”

As Harvard continues to grapple with the Supreme Court’s decision overturning race-based affirmative action in higher education, Healey said in the interview that the “partnership” between Harvard and the Massachusetts government “really matters.”

“When we were waiting for the Supreme Court’s decision on affirmative action, we organized here as a state,” she said.

Healey said her office “reached out to Harvard, reached out to other colleges and universities” and “had a conversation about what is it that we can do in the face of that decision” to allow universities to ensure a “diverse student body.”

Healey connected her dedication to educational equity to the early days of her career as a civil servant, where she defended the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity, a program promoting voluntary integration in the Boston area.

“I left private practice years ago, joined the attorney general’s office as head of the civil rights di-

vision,” she said. “One of the first cases I had was representing and defending the METCO program.” ly believe in strongly,” she added. the state and its education sys tems must “be more intentional about investments” in students of color at every level of schooling. ly bad decision from the Supreme Court on the issue of racism in higher ed,” she said. “But it can’t stop the work that we need to do to make sure that all students and all children have access to educa tion.”

Healey — who studied Govern ment at the College from 1988 to 1992 — spoke affectionately about her own experience as a Harvard student.

“I loved Harvard. I loved Harvard,” Healey said in the interview, smiling. “I love the whole vibe,” she added, expressing her appreciation for myriad aspects of life at the College, including athletics, the housing system, living in Harvard Yard, and many long-beloved shops in Harvard Square like Pinocchio’s Pizza and Subs and the Harvard Book Store.

Healey said that coming into the Yard from a small town in New Hampshire and seeing “people who just seemed so different from me” was an “eye-opening” experience.

“That’s a really important thing — if you’re going to want to lead — is to have more perspec-

tive and have more interaction with people in different lived experiences,” she added. “And that, for me, is something that I think is very special about Harvard.”

In terms of career aspirations, Healey distinguished herself from other Government concentrators at the College.

“If you’re at Harvard you may find yourself meeting or hearing from classmates who just say they want to go into politics or run for office. I was not one of those people,” she said.

Having received several rejections from investment bank recruiting while still a student, Healey went on to play basketball professionally in Europe af-

ter graduating. She went on to Northeastern Law School and eventually made her way to the attorney general’s office.

Healey said her positive experience at Harvard has led her to continue investing in the relationship between the Massachusetts government and the University.

She said Harvard gave her a sense of adventure and purpose.

“You did leave with an appreciation that there is this whole world out there,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to make it your own adventure.”

Cambridge City Council Again Rejects Affordable Housing Changes

BY JINA H. CHOE

Cambridge’s Monday City Council meeting proceeded in a familiar fashion: with a public comment portion marked by outcry over a controversial proposed expansion to the Affordable Housing Overlay and a failed effort to curtail the AHO amendments.

Councilors Patricia M. “Patty” Nolan ’80, Paul F. Toner, and Dennis J. Carlone also proposed alternative language to a set of controversial amendments to the AHO raising building height maximums on affordable housing developments. The alternative language would retain current AHO setback standards and use a different formula to calculate height limits.

A set of nearly identical

changes — put forward by Nolan and Toner — failed 6-3 in a Council vote last month.

Calling setback requirements

“a safety net for street trees,”

Nolan also warned about the amendments’ expansion of increased height limits to new areas of Cambridge.

Nolan criticized the proposed AHO amendments for “pretty dramatically” changing height limits throughout the entire city — “something most people are even aware of.”

Councilor Quinton Y. Zondervan defended the amendments’ original building guidelines.

“We went through a very careful process to figure out what would be appropriate heights,” he said. “And I think we came up with the right answer.”

Councilor Marc C. McGovern, who also opposed the changes to the amendments, said that the potential aesthetic problems of

taller buildings pale in comparison to the city’s housing crisis.

“The people who are gonna notice the difference between seven stories and nine stories are the people who aren’t gonna get to live in the units that would have been built at nine stories,” he said. “I think cities are vibrant things, I think they’re living things, I think they grow and change to meet the needs of the city, and we have a housing crisis.”

The Council considered three proposed amendments by the Community Development Department modifying language in the AHO. McGovern moved to substitute the language in the overlay with the language provided by the CDD.

Only Councilor Dennis J. Carlone opposed the motion, making the vote on the substitution 8-1.

In addition to discussing the AHO, the Council unanimous-

ly voted to pass a policy order requesting City Manager Yi-An Huang ’05 to seek greater collaboration on housing issues from Cambridge institutions and corporations with “substantial financial means” that have a significant impact on the city’s housing crisis.

The order calls on city staff to identify how these institutions — including Harvard, MIT, and Cambridge’s major life sciences or “high tech” corporations — can do more in providing affordable housing development.

Specifically, the policy order references “providing additional funds to the Affordable Housing Trust or by developing affordable/mixed-income housing” as possible ways in which these institutions can help alleviate Cambridge’s housing crisis. Carlone pointed out that in other “high-tech cities” such as Seattle and San Francisco, “large

high-tech companies that dominate those cities build housing for their own people.”

“It dawned on a few of us that because of these pressures, commercial and academic expansion of students, and less than of those students have housing on campus,” Carlone said. “It creates an issue.”

Siddiqui mentioned a conversation she had regarding Harvard’s “PILOT situation.” Harvard makes payments in lieu of taxes to the governments of Cambridge and Boston and is set to negotiate a new PILOT deal with Cambridge with the current agreement set to expire next year.

“I’m sure there’ll be some ongoing discussions the next few months,” Siddiqui said.

Harvard has fallen short of its financial contributions as part of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program to the city of Boston for

New Free College Programs Expands Cambridge

BY SALLY E. EDWARDS CRIMSON

Since the founding of Harvard as America’s first college, Massachusetts has been closely associated with elite universities. Now, state and local leaders are pushing to make the state the face of accessible higher education.

This summer, Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey ’92 signed a $56 billion state budget into law that included the MassReconnect program, which will allow Massachusetts residents who are 25 or older and have lived in the state for more than a year to attend community college at no cost.

Just over a month later, Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui announced the Cambridge Promise Pilot — a program that will enable 20 to 30 Cambridge Rindge and Latin School graduates from historically marginalized groups to attend Bunker Hill Community College tuition-free.

Cambridge formally launched the pilot this academic year. If the program is successful, it could set the stage for a much broader free community college program for residents.

In an interview with The Crimson Friday, Healey said she

attributes state and local governments’ commitment to higher education to the “fundamental” and “foundational” role that education plays in the state’s history and ethos.

“It’s enshrined in our Constitution,” she said. “We are home to the first public school and public library, and it is really important that we be a leader in the space, and that we make education available to everyone.”

Healey said she was “really happy” to sign the MassReconnect program into law and looks forward to helping Massachusetts residents who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford to pursue a degree.

“There are about 700,000 residents who had some credits towards a post-secondary degree, but had just dropped out of school for one reason or another,” she said.

Healey said she believes the program will help “get them back off the sidelines, in school, and in the workforce.”

While the state government invests in access to higher education, Cambridge officials have simultaneously worked to implement the Cambridge Promise Pilot. Siddiqui said that after learning that 25 to 35 percent of CRLS graduates do not attend col-

lege, her administration sought to create the program as an ac cessible path to higher education.

“We’ve also heard through the College Success Initiative for the city that money is a huge issue,” she said. “And, we don’t want the cost of education to be a barrier for our students to enter college.”

“These are the bare minimum that we can do to help some of our students and think about how we’re closing the college success gap,” she added.

Siddiqui said that she looks forward to see ing how the Cambridge Promise Pilot can work in concert with state-lev el policies like MassRecon nect. She specifically cited the minimum age requirement of the MassReconnect program, and said that the Cambridge Promise Pilot could help “recent grads of Cambridge Rindge and Latin.”

“There’s a gap in Reconnect — even if you take a gap year, it’s like, you’re 19 or 20 — you know, you have years before you’re 25,” she said. “So I think this kind of pro gram could fill that gap for some of our students.”

After two joint meetings among the city, MIT, and Harvard this summer, the two universities agreed to provide $25,000 each

11 consecutive years. The Council also voted unanimously to pass an amended policy order, increasing off-leash hours for dogs at Joan Lorentz Park from 8-10 a.m. to 6-10 a.m. McGovern proposed two amendments to a policy order on changing off-leash hours at Joan Lorentz Park.

The first amendment explicitly named local organizations such as the Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Association, the Neighborhood Dog Association, and the Friends of Joan Lorentz Park. The second amendment expanded off-leash hours to four hours, as opposed to simply shifting the hours to 6-8 a.m. Both amendments had passed 9-0. The Council will reconvene Oct. 16 for their next regular meeting.

Higher Education

Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey ’92 spoke with The Crimson Friday. ADDISON Y. LIU — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

STAFF WRITER

MASSACHUSETTS GOVERNOR Maura T. Healey ’92 sat down with The Crimson after University President Claudine Gay’s inauguration.

AND SAMUEL P. GOLDSTON CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Harvard Campus Crime Up in 2022

RISE IN CRIME. In 2022, crime on Harvard’s campus climbed by 46 percent from the 10-year low reported in 2021.

Crime on Harvard’s campus

climbed by 46 percent in 2022 from the 10-year low reported in 2021, according to a report released by the Harvard University Police Department Sunday.

The annual report, which discloses data as required by federal law under the Clery Act, shows 208 crimes reported in 2022. This figure is up from 142 reported crimes in 2021 and 179 reported crimes in 2020. Still, other than in 2020 and 2021, there were fewer

RALLY FROM PAGE 1

reported crimes in 2022 than every year since at least 2011. Despite the overall increase in crime from 2022 to 2021, the data shows a decrease in the number of reported rapes — from 22 to 16 — and domestic violence — from 7 to 5. Burglary rose substantially from 17 to 37 between 2021 and 2022, and motor vehicle theft rose from 37 to 81.

In 2022, there were just four arrests made by HUPD officers: three in Cambridge and one in Longwood, matching the same totals as 2021. Two of the arrests were for drug law violations, one was for a weapons violation, and the last was a liquor law violation.

The report also showed five hate crimes, including four assaults “motivated by race” and one assault “motivated by sexual orientation” in 2022. This number is

a slight increase from 2021, which saw four reported hate crimes.

Under the Clery Act, all colleges and universities that receive federal funding are mandated to disclose certain crimes in an annual security report.

HUPD released the annual report through an email to affiliates along with an annual fire safety report published by the Harvard University Environmental Health and Safety Department. The fire safety report indicated that there were no fires in Harvard buildings in 2022. There was one fire in a Harvard building in 2021. Harvard also conducted a total of 73 fire drills in the fall on its Allston, Cambridge, and Longwood campuses, up from 68 in 2021.

The report, which contains general public safety information and a note from HUPD Chief

Victor A. Clay, includes information collected from the Massachusetts State Police as well as the Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville police departments. The report shows crime statistics for the department’s first full year under Clay, who took over as police chief in July 2021.

Clay wrote that despite the low crime rate on Harvard’s campus, affiliates must remain vigilant against crime in Cambridge.

“It is important for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to remember that we must contend with many of the crime and safety issues that exist in any city,” Clay wrote in the report. “Preserving the safety and security of the University is the combined responsibility of the entire community.”

yusuf.mian@thecrimson.com

Activists Protest Council Candidates After Racist Social Media

In an emailed statement after this article was published Monday, Pasquarello denied allegations that she is Islamophobic, transphobic, or racist. She accused political opponents of “perpetuating a false narrative” with the intent to eliminate her from the race.

Robert Winters published a blog post on his website Monday afternoon titled “Now It’s My Turn To Speak” in which he wrote that he has been the victim of a “full-fledged campaign of harassment and intimidation by an otherwise forgettable political candidate seeking attention.”

“I’m sorry if anyone failed to appreciate my sense of humor (actually, I’m not really sorry) or failed to see either the irony or the absurdity of something I said over the last quarter-century,” he wrote, denying allegations that he is racist, transphobic, or Islamophobic, and standing by his social media posts.

“These are the tactics of Joseph McCarthy who I am sure is now looking down upon you and holding you in full embrace,” he wrote.

‘Standing Up Against Hate’

In a Thursday interview, Winters called the accusations against him “completely uncalled for and unfair,” adding that they were “clearly motivated by hostility.”

“Sometimes I think things are funny, no matter where they come from,” he said. “I don’t think anybody should be censoring my right to laugh at what I think is funny.”

When asked if he supports the rights of transgender individuals and their access to gender-affirming care, Winters said, “Sure, I mean if anybody of age wants to pursue something that makes them happy, I’m 100 percent for it.”

After gathering in Inman Square, the group then marched to the candidate celebration held by CCC, where a series of confrontations took place between protesters and those attending the celebration.

“Hatred, anti-Muslim, anti-LGBT, anti-trans has no place in Cambridge, and that’s why we’re standing up here,” said Kathy Watkins, a demonstrator affiliated with Our Revolution Cambridge.

A minutes-long argument took place between Sara Mae Berman — who hosted the event at her house — and the protesters, including candidates Dan J. Totten and Ayah A. Al-Zubi ’23, asking why she supported candidates who had engaged with transphobic and racist social media posts.

“Why won’t you reject hate?”

Totten asked.

Berman replied alleging the tweets were fabricated.

“I think that they have somehow infiltrated or hacked into the system to make it sound that way. This is not the way these people have behaved,” Berman said in an interview following the confrontation.

In one tweet written in 2016, Winters wrote, “Given a choice

between a creeping Islamic government vs. a military takeover, choose the military takeover. Islam and government don’t mix.”

“We’re fighting and we’re standing up against hate. It’s that simple. All we’re asking is for candidates to condemn the transphobic, the Islamophobic,” Al-Zubi said during the protest.

‘They Should Explain Themselves’

Another conflict arose when Nicola Williams, a marketing consultant and 2021 Council candidate, entered the candidate celebration — against the calls of many of the protesters, who urged her not to enter.

“Shame on you, Nicola,” protesters called out.

Williams — who was endorsed by CCC in the previous cycle — replied, “I don’t support those two people,” but continued inside. As she entered, demonstrators began singing, “Which side are you on?” — with some thanking her for disavowing the tweets.

“We need to move forward in

a way that brings people together and not break them apart,” Williams said. “So it’s important to have conversations and not ignore what people have to say.”

“So I just feel like this is part of democracy,” she added. “And that’s what we saw in action today.”

Federico Muchnik, another candidate for City Council endorsed by CCC, left the gathering to briefly speak with protesters, who asked him for his perspective on the candidates and the tweets. He told the protesters to “take it up with them,” and responded to subsequent questions with the Arabic phrase “walaikum salam,” which translates to “may peace be upon you.”

“They should direct their comments to Carrie and Robert, not the CCC,” Muchnik said in an interview. “The CCC has made a selection of candidates, some of whom are running on issues that I disagree with.”

Asked if he disagrees with Winters and Pasquarello, Muchnik replied, “Well, who wouldn’t?”

“If the allegations are true and

accurate, they should explain themselves,” he added.

In the interview, Muchnik read aloud a comment that he had written on a Cambridge Day article the night before that accused those attacking Winters and Pasquarello of “hijack[ing]” the electoral conversation “away from what the public needs to know about.”

As the Coalition’s candidate celebration began, the protesters continued to chant “Hey hey, ho ho, transphobia has got to go,” “CCC, bigotry,” and “Drop Rob,

Council candidate Ayesha M. Wilson.

‘Far More Complicated’

After the meet-and-greet portion of the party, CCC president and Harvard professor Suzanne P. Blier invited candidates to briefly introduce themselves and present their platforms to the audience.

In a Thursday interview, Blier said she believes there has been a “concerted effort” to “cancel” Winters and the CCC.

supports trans-rights.”

“Supporting LGBTQ and other individuals is critical to who we are — as individuals and as a group. Civic discourse around these issues is also key,” she added.

Later that day, the CCC steering committee voted to add a statement to their website saying that the coalition “stands with the LGBTQIA+ community’s fight for equality” and is “committed to ending anti-LGBTQIA+ violence, bullying, and discrimination, and to ensuring that LGBTQIA+ individuals are treated with dignity and respect in their communities, their workplaces, and their schools.”

‘We All Will Digest It’

At the Sunday party, CCC steering committee member Marilee Meyer said she thought the protesters’ actions were “undemocratic.”

“I don’t understand a protest at a public function where people get to meet the candidates,” she said. “They don’t have to vote for them, but at least do your homework to find out who they are.”

As of Sunday evening, Council candidates Totten, Al-Zubi, Wilson, Vernon K. Walker, Jivan G.Sobrinho-Wheeler, Burhan Azeem, and Marc C. McGovern had publicly condemned Winters’ tweets.

On Thursday, Pasquarello deleted a tweet about a shooting in Dorchester that she had shared from an account whose name included the phrase “neo-aryan” — a retweet protesters repeatedly criticized her for Sunday.

“Once the name was brought to my attention, I dealt with it expediently. My intention is always to ensure the well-being of our community members,” she wrote in a statement.

Candidate Catherine Zusy said she was grateful for the CCC endorsement. When asked about the tweets, she said, “I feel as though in our culture today, we are too quick to cancel people.”

“Maybe he did something that lacked judgment,” she said of Winters. “I don’t know. But are you gonna negate all the good that he’s done for the city for 40 years?”

Patricia M. “Patty” Nolan ’80, one of only two incumbents endorsed by the CCC, said she found some of the tweets offensive.

Paul F. Toner, the second incumbent endorsed by the CCC, said he doesn’t “think anybody here is transphobic or Islamophobic, or is racist.”

Drop Carrie, CCC is pretty scary.”

Two Cambridge Police Department officers were stationed on the street outside of the celebration for the duration of the protests.

More than 40 CCC members and Cambridge residents attended the party, the first 30 minutes of which were spent allowing endorsees and attendees to mingle and talk.

All but one of the group’s 12 endorsed candidates were in attendance, with the exception of School Committee member and

“These are serious issues,” she said. “And at the same time, like so many things, it’s far more complicated.”

Blier said she and the CCC stand by Winters and Pasquarello, who she called “extraordinary civic leaders.”

Asked if the CCC supports the rights of trans people, Blier said, “Well, I can’t speak for the CCC, because all of our decisions are group decisions. But I can say I absolutely do.”

In an email after the interview, Blier wrote that, “Of course CCC

“I think there may be some mistakes that have been made along the way,” he said.

When asked about CCC’s next steps following the new information that has come to life, Christopher Mackin, a member of the CCC board of directors, said the group had just learned of the posts. “It’s all being circulated to the executive committee of the CCC,” he said. “We all will digest it. And we’ll act accordingly.”

muskaan.arshad@thecrimson.com

julian.giordano@thecrimson.com

Sara Mae Berman, who hosted the event at her house, walked across the street to confront the protesters. JULIAN J. GIORDANO — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

Protesters hold signs and chant across the street from the Cambridge Citizens Coalition endorsement celebration. JULIAN J. GIORDANO — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER Protesters called on candidates Robert Winters and Carrie E. Pasquarello to drop out of the race. JULIAN J. GIORDANO — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

The Harvard University Police Department released its annual crime report on Sunday. JULIAN J. GIORDANO — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

Artist Profile: President Drew Gilpin Faust

BY CARMINE J. PASSARELLA CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

As a child, Drew Faust already had an innate tendency towards enacting change. At the young age of eight, Faust wrote a letter to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, imploring him to end the racist segregation practices that plagued her 1950s Virginia community. The letter is included in the opening pages of Faust’s debut memoir, “Necessary Trouble: Growing Up at Midcentury,” setting the tone for her life of trailblazing. Faust’s writing details her life as a young girl and her subsequent choice to attend Bryn Mawr College to study history and become involved in student activist groups protesting the Vietnam War.

The Harvard Crimson recently spoke with Faust, president emerita of Harvard University and University Professor — Harvard’s highest faculty honor — about her life and work. In the interview, Faust described the historical lens of her writing, resulting in a book that successfully balances and blends genres:

“I always thought of the book as a history memoir,” Faust said. “By history memoir, I mean situating my life within a broader set of

understandings and research into the era.”

Faust stays true to her training as an American historian, as she sprinkles both snippets of Life Magazine archives and scans of family photographs throughout the work. Much of her memoir’s content also extends back several generations, providing insight not only into her childhood but also the lives of her extended lineage. Faust achieves this broad family history by writing short biographies of her numerous ancestors in the South, articulating the ways that the social constraints and political developments of the time dictated each of her ancestor’s life trajectories and, by extension, her own. The early chapters of Faust’s memoir dutifully and meticulously chronicle the decades-long impacts of countless wartime tragedies, stifling gender norms, and demanding upper-class expectations which ultimately decided the terms of her birth and upbringing.

“For my mother and grandmother,” Faust said, “the constraints on them as women of their class, time, and race dictated certain paths that so suppressed their ability to choose that they lapsed into the positions they were expected to fill. Whereas when I came along, things were beginning to open up so that my own sense of injustice could in-

tersect with the rising voices opposing the injustice of segregated schools.”

Faust specifically cited the landmark Supreme Court case of Brown v. Board of Education as a turning point she experienced that created an urgency to pursue greater choice and opportunity.

“[Brown v. Board of Education] opened up a conversation and a debate that I could overhear on the radio,” Faust said. “That began a path for me of seeing where I might intersect with the wider world — a path that I found more gratifying and more fulfilling than the past that my predecessors, especially the female ones, were able to follow.”

Before coming to Harvard, Faust pursued a career in academia at the University of Pennsylvania, earning her Ph.D. in History and serving on the faculty there for 25 years, eventually earning a named History professorship. She left this position for Harvard in 2001, becoming the inaugural dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study and the University’s 28th and first female president in 2007.

Continuing to teach for several years after stepping down as president, Faust recently retired from teaching this past June, now dedicating much of her time to writing. Faust is a contributing writer for The Atlantic and is in the ear-

Review: Shit-faced Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ Is a Drunken Drama

BY SERENA JAMPEL AND OLLIE J. MARINACCIO CRIMSON STAFF WRITERS

Witches, murders, and a whole lot of booze: Shit-faced Shakespeare’s production of “Macbeth,” which runs until Nov. 18 at The Rockwell, adapts the Bard’s iconic tragedy into a hilariously messy hour of frivolous fun.

Directed by Lewis Ironside, Shit-faced Shakespeare presents “Macbeth” with an abridged and lightly improvised version of the original script and one completely inebriated cast member. All of this mayhem is expertly narrated by the evening’s host, who prepares the audience with some well-timed jokes and hands out props for audience participation.

The Sept. 21st performance saw Banquo (Noelle Scarlett) satisfyingly sloshed, stumbling across the stage and occasionally inserting herself wildly into scenes. In a moment of hot debate between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth only moments after the murder of King Duncan, Banquo trots gleefully onstage, beer in hand, forcing the couple into a bout of impressive improvisation to hide Macbeth’s bloody hands. In a final hurrah before Scarlett’s third onstage death (as three different characters), the actors around her began hitting her with their props, which led to a mutual outburst of laughter.

Shit-faced Shakespeare sol-

idly rests on a crucial tenet: The audience finds drunk people funny, and moreover, they find a certain post-traumatic glee in seeing some of the most wellknown, classic lines botched in the name of boozy hilarity. But if audiences tire of the shock factor of watching a professional actor literally stumble on the job, or if they wish to understand the intricacies of “Macbeth,” then they will need to change their expectations, as Shit-faced Shakespeare quickly reveals itself as a farce, and not at all a faithful interpretation.

While only one cast member was inebriated, the rest of the cast was undeniably under the influence of her antics.

When any actor interacted with her, there was a serious attempt to stifle laughter. In the scenes where Banquo was not present, the cast reverted back to the traditional drama of The Scottish Play. Liv Dumaine (Lady Macbeth) delivered her soliloquies with enough conviction that the riled up drunken crowd fell silent, and Kody Grassett’s portrayal of Macbeth’s tortured introspection burst through the screwball tone to deliver some poignant drama.

However, it is undeniable that the drunk cast member actively destroyed the cohesion of the performance. The host, in a role that resembled that of a babysitter more than an emcee, had the task of following the intoxicated actor around, at times literally

mopping up the mess she made of the play with her perpetually full beer cup. The larger the spill, however, the larger the uproar from the crowd.

Perhaps the most hilarious part of the whole show was found in creative details by the Design Team: Joanne Farwell, Ironside, Brett Milanowski, and Christina Savage. The three witches’ masks and costumes were delightfully creepy: Reminiscent of the horror from the television series “Stranger Things,” the toothyfaced witches dancing around a large plastic cauldron were an unforgettable sight. In addition, the decision to represent young Fleance as a plastic baby doll on a remote-control motorized car added perfect, modest absurdism to an already stripped-down production.

Shit-faced Shakespeare’s production of “Macbeth” offers a riotous way to spend an hour on any evening. While the Shakespearean elements may be incoherent at times, that is not the primary draw of this production. Shakespeare himself would likely appreciate the silliness and irreverence with which his work is treated in this adaptation. It’s an ideal choice for a bachelorette party or a night of drunken drama-seeking escapism, where laughter and chaos take center stage, leaving behind the somber complexity of the original tragedy.

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ly stages of future book proposals while continuing her press tour for “Necessary Trouble.”

While no longer teaching students in the classroom, Faust nonetheless continues to consider how her writing can connect with younger audiences and future generations: “This is a story of a particular moment, the shift from the ’50s into the ’60s, that I think is extremely important,” Faust said.

that era of life stories.”

Faust’s commitments to justice and diversity, notable from the first page of the book onward, were guiding forces in her adult life as well.

and freedom ‘to,’” Faust said. After graduating from college, Faust described herself as “free from the constraints that had been imposed on her by Virginia of the 1950s.”

“I was educated, I had a job, but what was I going to do? How was I going to find the freedom ‘to’? To do what?” Faust said. “I never had in my mind a clear path, not when I graduated from college — a clear plan that I wanted to follow.”

I was educated, I had a job, but what was I going to do? How was I going to find the freedom ‘to’? To do what?

Drew Gilpin Faust Former Harvard President

“I also feel that Baby Boomers have been maligned, and I want to show the struggles they did have and the things that later generations don’t have to think about,” she added.

“I’ve also gotten a lot of emails from people about my age who are prompted to tell me their life stories, and I’m collecting them.

I’m going to keep them all and put them in the archives at Harvard. Maybe they can be a resource for people who want a window into

In describing her years as president, University Provost Alan M. Garber ’76, appointed to the role in 2011 by Faust, wrote in an email to The Harvard Crimson that much of Faust’s presidency was “dedicated to righting wrongs,” which she accomplished through “well-crafted arguments, eloquence, and tact.”

“Drew’s effort to reverse the exclusion of many talented people from the positions they deserved, whether based on gender, race, or other factors, was already well underway when I arrived in 2011,” Garber wrote. “Her perspective and skills as a distinguished historian shaped how Harvard approached these issues. Her goal was not to erase the past, but to examine it and trace the path from past events to our current challenges.”

In the closing chapter of her memoir, Faust details her graduation from Bryn Mawr and her subsequent struggle to chart her own course as a young adult. This narrative arc bears a marked resemblance to the same struggle facing many college graduates today, adding relatability to the work for a younger audience.

“I write about freedom ‘from’

However, Faust cautions recent graduates from choosing a strict career path immediately following graduation: “That thinking in some way reduces the anxiety of uncertainty, but it may also limit one’s ability to discover paths that aren’t necessarily predictable,” Faust said.

Instead, Faust offers a different perspective on how one should approach their postgraduate years; “That mantra, ‘be comfortable being uncomfortable,’ is, I think, what graduates right now should feel.”

If Faust’s life and career are any indication, that best career path may not even be a possibility in the minds of many students. However, through her memoir and advice, Faust suggests that adaptability and comfort with uncertainty can lead to great success and a rewarding life.

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The Boston Pops Play a Stellar ‘Star Wars’ Performance

BY CLAIRE S. ELLIOTT CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

On the drizzly Sunday afternoon of Sept. 24, hundreds of people milled into Symphony Hall. Unlike many of the Boston Pops’s performances, there were space buns, leather jackets, and numerous graphic tees spottable within the audience. Excited chatter rumbled throughout the hall, void of rigid formality. When the overture began, the vibrations settled the audience into stillness.

Conducted by Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops’s “‘Star Wars’: The Story in Music” was a warm, nostalgic celebration of the beloved film sagas and the brilliant composer behind them, former Pops conductor John Williams. The performance carried the audience through the “Star Wars” trilogies, highlighting the iconic songs and musical themes that frame the films. To truly invoke the intergalactic setting, the Pops employed Jeremiah Kissel as a narrator. The Shakespearian actor contextualized songs that preceded major plot shifts with avid expressions, comical remarks, and overt gesticulations. In short, Kissel cleared any confusion, while adding to the light-hearted atmosphere himself.

Rather than following the films’ soundtracks by order of release, the Pops performed them chronologically. Initially, beginning with young Anakin on Tatooine, the home planet where he grew up, seemed like a disappointing surprise. However, even though “The Phantom Menace” lacked invig-

orating thematic elements, John Williams’s work certainly did not. In fact, the tragedy of Anakin resonated more in the orchestra than the prequel saga. The last song, “Enter Lord Vader,” balanced Anakin’s theme to Vader’s masterfully, giving the character more depth than the script does.

When “The New Hope,” soundtrack arrived, the orchestra shined a light of giddy nostalgia on the audience. The songs were not only beautiful, but familiar. In their familiarity, the epic conflicts, hopes, and storytelling in “Star Wars” were brought to life once more. During the tumultuous “Dark Side” songs, the lights above the orchestra turned red and dark. During ones of light — the songs of Luke, Leia, and Han — blue, pink, and purple would fill the theater. Even Yoda, an iconic but supporting character, got his green swamp song.

The selection of the songs in each film was also exquisite. Not only were the main, defining, heart-rending songs of the sagas chosen, but also the niche, whimsical ones too. For instance, the “Cantina Band” and “Jabba the Hutt” were full of life, adding thrills of excitement in between the longer, more dramatic songs. In contrast, “The Imperial March,” which serves as the leitmotif for Darth Vader and his dark forces, excited the audience with its tense, staccato rhythm.

Throughout the performance, certain instruments stood out, including the harp, tuba, and oboes. While the strings and percussion

played wonderfully and elevated the others, these instruments mastered their solos and truly defined the songs. Jessica Zhou, the Pops’s harpist, stunned all with her performance, bringing both elegance and depth to the works.

By the time the Pops finished the final saga, narrating Rey’s story in song, the performance seemed drawn out. Callbacks to the original score took up much of the new songs, giving the performance a somewhat anticlimactic finish. Moreover, the new saga’s music relied heavily on nostalgia, and by the time the audience reached it, most yearnings for the past had already been satisfied.

Rey’s theme, however, made up for this repetition. Her leitmotif is mysterious, beautiful, mellow, and bright. In it, Williams seems to ponder the mystic and innate nature of the Force, marveling at it through the curious, warm, and strong Rey. The score was even more impressive considering Williams wrote it in his eighties.

The end of the performance brought joy not only to the audience, but to the conductor, the narrator, and the performers themselves. The story of “Star Wars” was just as powerful in song as it was in film, and one left the performance reminded of all the reasons why the sagas were such a moving success. Although George Lucas created the films, John Williams and the Boston Pops equally told the Skywalkers’ story.

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‘OBJECTS OF ADDICTION’ AT THE HARVARD ART MUSEUMS

UPSAHL: Come for the ‘Drugs,’ Stay for Stardom

BY ABIGAIL A. GOLDEN CRIMSON STAFF WRITER

On Sept. 12, Taylor Cameron Upsahl, better known for her on-stage mononym UPSAHL, arrived at Roadrunner in support of Swedish dance-pop star Tove Lo for the North American leg of her “Dirt Femme” tour.

UPSAHL has been writing and producing music since her early teens, garnering a small following in her hometown of Phoenix through a collection of self-released projects. In 2019, UPSAHL shot to TikTok notoriety with her single “Drugs,” which remains her most listened-to track with over 100 million streams. She then released her debut album “Lady Jesus” in 2021, followed by a series of EPs titled “The PHX Tapes.” One could only describe her style as provocative and outrageous, with selections like

“WET WHITE TEE SHIRT” and “Lunatic” as some of the standouts from her more recent releases.

UPSAHL’s performance at Roadrunner was nothing short of electrifying, matching the fiery shock of her red hair. After drenching her white tee shirt in water to begin her set, it was clear from the get-go that UPSAHL was there to make a statement. The crowd’s energy seemed to embolden her as she confidently strutted across the stage, making a name for herself with any audience members unfamiliar with her music.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly her viral hit “Drugs,” which turned into a thrilling call and response between UPSAHL and the audience. Supported by two members of her band decked out in bubblegum pink coveralls, UPSAHL managed to connect with the packed venue effortlessly, encouraging them to groove and

sing along.

Throughout the performance, UPSAHL wasn’t afraid to experiment with the work of other established artists. Interpolating a cover of The Ting-Tings’ “That’s Not My Name” into her song “GOOD GIRL ERA,” UPSAHL not only welcomed new listeners into the fold, but also commanded the attention of her own fans in the crowd.

Throughout the performance, UPSAHL’s stage presence was undeniably exhilarating, reflecting the edgy nature of her music. She fearlessly interacted with the crowd, at times even running down from the stage to sing directly to audience members. It was this close connection with her listeners that made the concert feel intimate despite the large venue.

Adding to this intimacy were the song choices she made, like the inclusion of her song “Toast,” co-written with Tove Lo. In contrast to her cool-girl affect on

“Drugs” or “WET WHITE TEE SHIRT,” “Toast” was a heartfelt and desperate plea to an ex, adding a touch of vulnerability to an otherwise explosive set.

“Wonder if I am still on your mind,” she crooned to a swaying crowd. “How didn’t I know it was coming to an end?”

As the evening drew to a close, it became readily apparent that UPSAHL’s performance was not just thrilling but also profoundly memorable. Her ability to blend the provocative with the authentic, all while maintaining an infectious energy, solidified her as one-to-watch in the indie pop scene. For those lucky enough to be in attendance, it was a night filled with unforgettable music and a powerful connection between artist and listener. UPSAHL’s star is on the rise, and her performance in Boston left no doubt that she’s a force to be reckoned with.

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This National Recovery Month, the Harvard Art Museums welcomes its community back for the academic year with the opening of “Objects of Addiction: Opium, Empire, and the Chinese Art Trade.” The fall exhibition, developed by Alan J. Dworsky Associate Curator of Chinese Art Sarah Laursen, is a timely call for viewers to examine their own ties to the entangled histories of the opioid crisis and art collecting, exploring the turbulent and interconnected streams of Western opium into China in late 19th century and 20th century Chinese art shipped to the United States.

“Objects of Addiction” greets visitors with an overview of the context of the opium trade, outlining the interconnected histories of China, the United States, and Europe in the sales of Indian opium in China in the 18th century and the importation of Chinese tea to Europe and the United States. This first of three galleries places popular Chinese export art, such as porcelains and paintings, in illuminating conversation with opium-related items, including an opium pipe made of water buffalo horn which confronts viewers at the entrance to the space. The gallery’s objects illustrate not only the temporal and geographical progression of commerce, but also the calamitous effects of opium on the people of China through documentary materials, contemporary political cartoons, and photography. Importantly, the exhibition defends space for the diverse voices of individuals involved in all sides of the opium story: A video loop and audio wands present perspectives and quotations from the historical figures embedded in the wall text of the exhibition, allowing for more direct engagement with the ethical questions underlying their involvement in the opium trade.

Rather than presenting a sealed history of the past, “Objects of Addiction” demands consideration of a poignant story weaving through the lives of its present audiences.

The exhibition will remain on display through Jan. 14, 2024, in the Special Exhibitions Gallery on Level 3 of the Harvard Art Museums, reminding viewers that the histories of opioid addiction continue even beyond the gallery exit.

marin.gray@thecrimson.com

‘Castlevania: Nocturne’: Violence Made Beautiful

BY JOHN M. WEAVER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“Castlevania” is a franchise of video games penned in blood, featuring dances choreographed with flashing blades and trailing viscera, sorrowful arias wrought with despair, and magnificent costumes fit for vampire princes. Both the games and the previous Netflix series follow the Belmont family, a lineage of magical, whip-wielding vampire hunters. “Castlevania: Nocturne,” is not afraid to proclaim the hidden beauty of the grotesque. Through the show’s extended exploration of liberty, the audience is presented with a story that, despite occasional narrative blunders, is deeply moving and endlessly spectacular.

The season begins with a brief vignette set in Boston, Massachusetts at the end of the American Revolutionary War, following the protagonist Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel) when he was just 10 years old. His youthful confidence and denunciation of evil stands in sharp contrast to his mother, Julia Belmont’s (Sophie Skelton) defeated attitude as she attempts to herd him towards a ship bound for the Old World. Faces lit by striking flashes of color as fireworks proclaim the newfound freedom of America, the pair is suddenly ambushed by a superbly dressed vampire named Olrox. After a vicious battle between Julia and Olrox, Richter’s mother is suddenly struck dead, a shower of blood and viscera erupting from her body as she is impaled by a thick talon. Richter watches her body fall to the ground with a dull, unceremonious thud. The vampire slinks away as a cloud of black mist after promising to kill the boy after he’s had time to fester in and suffer from trauma, allowing Richter to escape for France while setting the

stage for a tale of revenge, trauma, and unending cycles of violence. Throughout the next two episodes the audience is introduced to the main cast through a series of vignettes thematically connected by loss and pain. Maria (Pixie Davies), Richter’s adoptive sister, is a young girl who organizes clandestine meetings in support of the French Revolution, and summons mythical creatures to defend her bloody ideals. Annette (Thuso Mbedu), a Haitian revolutionary, recounts her harrowing escape from slavery. Finally, the tragic Edouard (Sydney James Harcourt), a heroic opera singer who helped Annette regain her freedom, is murdered and turned into a vampire by a pack of grotesque night creatures. The brisk pace of their introductions combined with their narrative proximity has the effect of cheapening their stories somewhat, with uniquely tragic backstories blending into each other as homogenous backgrounds of trauma. This issue hints to a pattern throughout the rest of the season, in which landmark character events are not given the time they need to properly blossom into a fully impactful scene. The show uses this cast to explore the theme of freedom in all its variations and limitations. Institutional oppression is explored through the heroes’ fight against the vampires, a group in league with both the aristocracy and the immensely powerful church. Though every foe they face is incomprehensibly powerful, whether it be vampires, slavers, or the aristocracy, each character in turn finds comfort in companionship and music, paving the way for the keystone theme of the show’s production: art as resistance. Edouard is the most obvious illustration of this theme, utilizing his unparalleled operatic talents both

as a front for securing the freedom of escaped slaves and as a catalyst to spur desolate and broken bystanders to action. Annette reflects this as well, using both her mother’s lullabies and musical incantations passed down from her ancestors to manifest immense magical power. Her manipulation of stone and metal directly reflects this process of creation and uses it to fight back against the villains who threaten her loved ones. The connection between her magic and art is reinforced in moments of peace when she uses it to form stone busts of her friends and other earthen portraits. Each character is adorned in attire fit for a stage, replete with vibrant colors and shining trinkets. The vampires are especially striking, garbed in opulent dresses that sparkle in the moonlight with emerald earrings that match their eerie, lime eyes. Even the night creatures, human souls dragged from the pits of hell and placed into grotesque, monstrous bodies, are almost hauntingly beautiful with their flesh and bone facsimiles of tailcoats and crowns.

The settings are built to match, featuring magnificent landscapes rendered in an impressive variety of styles. Scenes linked to the Revolution or moments of peace free from oppression are almost impressionist in their use of color and light. As Maria buries a beloved pet she summoned to help fight anti-revolutionary vampires, she is framed by a beautiful natural setting aglow with the warmth of the setting sun. Other scenes depart sharply from this serene beauty, with heavily distorted figures rendered in nightmarish cool colors. The dexterity with which the show moves between art styles to achieve different tones is as effective as it is impressive.

The action sequences are not

only viscerally satisfying to watch thanks to weighty sound-design and deft camera movement, but stunningly beautiful, boasting an array of vibrant colors and well-composed frames. In a battle beneath an abbey, the cast of heroes finds themselves locked in a deadly fight with vampires and night creatures alike. The camera nimbly follows the movements of each character, darting between blow after blow as it jumps from one character to the next. Each hit is felt by the audience as slashes are accompanied by the sound of tearing flesh while brutal punches shatter bones with a sickening crunch. The scenes, though harrowing, are savagely beautiful and easy to follow thanks to their fluid movements and striking use of color.

Finally, perhaps the crowning achievement of the show is its use of music. Many pivotal scenes are

set against a backdrop of haunting diegetic arias belted out by Edouard. Whenever present, his voice takes command of the scene, lending the action, no matter how grotesque, a sickeningly beautiful grandeur. The orchestra is similarly impressive, featuring clean renditions of iconic pieces of chamber music and dextrous violin solos that accompany high intensity moments. Despite the artful presentation, the narrative occasionally falters. The dialogue is often irreverent to the point of being reductive, with misplaced expletives ruining otherwise serious moments. Defining character moments such as deaths and flashbacks are sometimes not given the time they need to be effective, and character motivations sometimes go unexplored. However, despite these missteps, the story is incredibly compel-

ling, boasting sympathetic characters that, through their history and heart-wrenching voice acting, can bring the audience to the point of tears. The first season of “Castlevania: Nocturne” is strong, boasting incredible visuals with a moving narrative that, though imperfect, is still powerful. Despite the story being weaker than its Netflix predecessor, it far exceeds the previous installment in its animation and music. Even after the finale wraps up its bloody symphony, viewers will be eager for a second season that will see the heroes finally stand toe to toe with their nightmares made flesh after a season of build-up.

4 STARS

FIFTEEN QUESTIONS 15

Vijay Iyer is the professor of the arts as well as graduate advisor for the Music Department’s Creative Practice and Critical Inquiry program. He’s an internationally recognized jazz pianist and toured for many years before beginning to teach. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

FM: Before your career as a full time musician, you studied physics and math. And then I read that you created your own, or helped design your own Ph.D. program, studying embodied musical cognition. So I just wanted you to talk about your path to Harvard, for people who aren’t super familiar with your work.

VI: I went to Yale for undergrad. I was a physics and math major.

Of course, like all college students, when I was there I studied a lot of things: a lot of humanities stuff in particular, you know, literary theory, and I read everything that Freud ever wrote. I got into post structuralist critical theory stuff. But the main thing was that I had been playing music my whole life. I had violin lessons, and I also picked up piano by ear and then became an improviser, then composer, and became a jazz pianist.

I basically got into physics grad school, and I thought that

VIJAY IYER ON COGNITION, TEMPORALITY, AND MUSICAL COMMUNITY

PROFESSIONAL MUSICIAN and Harvard professor of the arts Vijay Iyer sat down with Fifteen Minutes to chat about his career, his teaching philosophy, and the neuroscience of music.

BY MILA G. BARRY CRIMSON MAGAZINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

thing. It’s literally a parameter in the equations of motion. Motion is a thing. Motion is what happens. One of my favorite articles in the cognitive sciences was actually by a psychologist named J.J. Gibson. The title of the article is basically his thesis, which is that events are perceivable, but time is not. So we don’t actually perceive time, we perceive events. How do we do that? Well, it turns out that our bodies are full of events, actually, that have cycles to them, that have temporalities to them. Breathing, heartbeat, different brainwaves. Circadian rhythms, menstrual rhythms, Seasonal Affective Disorders and things like that. We’re tied to the rhythms of the planet.

These rhythms are the stuff of music; the things that our bodies do in time are what musical time is made of.

All these things that bodies do — they don’t just correspond to music. They are the source of it.

FM: My next question is about your musical inspirations. You write in your bio that your music draws mainly from South Asian and West African rhythmic traditions — most concisely, referred to as jazz. And so I was wondering how you would describe your musical voice, but then also how you navigate cross-cultural art making and specifically music innovation

SAMI E. TURNER — CRIMSON PHOTOGRAPHER

No.19 Harvard Set to Face Cornell

treating this like any other week,’ so [it’s] just another win in the column, so [we’re] just moving on to this week now.”

the field — we won as a team, and I appreciate being in the right spot at the right time.”

face Cornell, DePrima emphasized the importance of focused preparation.

Cornell, bringing their A-game to the field, and aiming to continue their undefiled winning streak.

READ IT IN FIVE MINUTES

MEN’S SOCCER V. COLUMBIA, 3-1

In its first road Ivy League match of the year, the Harvard men’s soccer team defeated the Columbia Lions 3-1. Three different Crimson players notched points in the matchup, including junior Alessandro Arlotti, sophomore Marcos Ojea Quintana, and firstyear Dylan Tellado. The Crimson will look to improve on their second-place league 1-0-1 record on Saturday, Oct. 7 at home on Jordan Field against Brown University

WOMEN’S SOCCER GOING STRONG

Harvard women’s soccer team put on a show for their annual Pride Game at home against the visiting Dartmouth Big Green, winning 3-0. First-year Jasmine Leshnick earned the top play of the night on Sportscenter with a high bicycle kick over the arms of the Dartmouth goalie. Junior Hannah Bebar and sophomore Audrey Francois followed shortly after to give Harvard its commanding lead. The Crimson are now tied for 2nd in the League and will face Cornell away on Saturday Oct. 7.

MEN’S WATER POLO DEFEATS LIU

No. 19/21 Harvard, one of the three still-undefeated squads in the FCS, is gearing up to dive back into Ivy League play against Cornell this Friday night.

Harvard’s impressive 38-28 win on the road against thenNo. 5/6 Holy Cross last weekend was more than just a game for the Crimson. In addition to being Harvard’s first win against the No. 25/RV Crusaders since Oct. 2, 2021, it was also the Crimson’s highest ranked win since defeating No. 11 Yale on Nov. 17, 2007.

“It felt good,” said junior quarterback Charles Deprima about the team’s win against Holy Cross. “Right before the game, [I said] to the guys, ‘we’re

For his performance against Holy Cross, sophomore defensive back A.J. Lopez was crowned the FedEx Ground FCS National Defensive Player of the Week and the Ivy League Defensive Player of the Week. He had five tackles, an interception that he returned for a touchdown, and one forced fumble. “To be honest, I [didn’t feel] like both of those awards were for myself, but I feel like it was a team effort to get those awards,” reflected Lopez about the recent recognition he’s gotten both on the Ivy League and national level. “I wasn’t the only one out on

Lopez also echoed Harvard’s strong play and team chemistry in the victory against Holy Cross.

“I felt as though that told us a lot about our team,” he continued. “That we can go out and compete at a higher level against anybody, we just have to come in and do our job. If we come in and do our job, we’ll be successful against anybody we play.”

Despite the excitement from last week’s upset, staying grounded and focusing on every next game continues to play a constant role in Harvard’s preparation and execution.

As the offense prepares to

GAMES TO WATCH THIS WEEK

“Just focusing on the game plan no matter what and preparing just like it’s any other week. Opponents change, game plans change, attitudes change, so you just got to make sure you’re staying focused no matter what,” the quarterback said.

On the defensive side of the ball, Lopez further elaborated on the approach towards Cornell:

“In terms of uniqueness, I would say nothing crazy.” Lopez stressed, “The preparation is to come and do our job. If we do our job at a high level, we can beat Cornell, we can beat anybody we play.”

Harvard, ranked at No. 19 in the AFCA Coaches Poll, currently holds its highest spot in the coaches ranking since it secured No. 16 on Oct. 18, 2021 and is eager to break that mark.

Going into the matchup against Cornell, head coach Tim Murphy sits on the verge of tying the Ivy League record for the most conference victories. Meanwhile, the rest of the team is vigorously preparing to face

“Cornell brings a lot every year,” said DePrima about what the team is working on in preparation against Cornell. “It’s definitely an important preparation, especially with the short week. It’s just important that we’re studying film, doing what we can to make sure that we’re sharp going into Friday.”

Hoping to maintain its untainted record and carve a 4-0 start for the first time since 2021, and only the second time since 2017, the Crimson is looking to further solidify its position not only in the rankings but also in the annals of Ivy League football history. The anticipation is palpable, and as Friday approaches, all eyes will be on this formidable squad as they face off against the Big Red.

Harvard will kickoff against Cornell at 7:00 p.m, EST on Friday at Harvard Stadium. The game will be streamed on ESPN2.

jack.canavan@thecrimson.com

nadia.fairfax@thecrimson.com

No. 20 Harvard men’s water polo defeated LIU 16-6 and Iona 15-10 in back-to-back games away in New York. Sophomore James Rozolis-Hill scored eight goals on the day, with first-year Vilas Sogaard-Srikrishnan adding four goals and two assists. Sophomore goaltender Tanner Furtak had 17 saves on the day, while first-year Oliver Price, who split the cage with Furtak against Iona, had five. Against LIU, eight different players found the back of the net while senior Gabe Putnam was a force for the Crimson on defense. Against Iona, firstyear Jacob Tsotadze and first-year Jack Burghardt both had three goals, while senior Owen Hale and junior Tyler Zarcu netted two. Tsotadze had two assists against Iona, while Hale added another assist to the team’s tally. Harvard looks to improve on its 8-3, 2-1 record at MIT on Saturday, Oct. 7 and against Brown on Sunday, Oct. 8.

Charles Deprima ’25 Quarterback

WOMEN’S GOLF

Wong and Women’s Golf Starting Strong

STARTING STRONG.

First-year Lauren Wong scored a three-over 75, helping the Crimson to a fifth-place finish in the Yale Invitational.

Entering her first collegiate golf tournament at this year’s Yale Invitational, first-year Lauren Wong immediately made a statement on the green. Walking onto the team was already a huge personal victory for Wong, and this weekend was the icing on the cake.

Competing in the individual event, she finished with an impressive score of three-over 75 and posted the second most pars in the event with 15. Wong finished the tournament tied for 15th.

The first-year grew up in Las Vegas, Nev., where she graduated from West Career and Technical Academy. During her high school years, Wong made a name for herself in the golf community. On top of being named a 2022 AJGA Rolex Scholastic Jr.

All-American, she won the 2022 Las Vegas City Junior Amateur, 2022-23 Mountain Region Division One Championship, and led her high school girl’s golf team as a four-time captain. She was also ranked 39th in the graduating class of 2023 and No. 130 overall.

Wong is also one of five recipients of The Chevron Changing the Face of Golf Scholarship, a $10,000 prize that aims to increase the opportunities of female high school golf athletes hoping to pursue a STEM education in higher education. She is the champion of the 2022 AJGA GreatLIFE Junior Challenge in South Dakota, as well as a Top 10 finisher in three AJGA tournaments. Even with all these accomplishments, it’s needless to say that collegiate atheltics pose a new challenge that will take time for Wong to get used to. Golf courses in Las Vegas are known for their desert style, where there’s only grass on the tees, fair-

WOMEN’S RUGBY

ways, and green. Here in New England, the courses require more strategy and course management. More importantly, practice and tournaments become more demanding, and competition becomes more intense.

“The operations of a college golf team are definitely at a higher level than high school,” Wong remarked. “I had a wonderful high school golf experience, but the dynamic was very different because performance levels and dedication to the sport varied so much. In college, every player earned their spot on the team because of their ability to perform and their desire to compete.”

What more, being a student athlete puts a lot on her plate. At a school known globally for its academic excellence, it can be difficult to juggle sports with academics, self-care, and a social life at Harvard. Wong has found this to be no different as she gradually finds her way.

“I think understanding how to maintain a balance between academics, golf, social life, and sleep is definitely something that I am still trying to learn,” she said. “Ultimately, I think that it comes down to knowing what your priorities are and accepting that there will be sacrifices that you have to make.”

Luckily, Wong isn’t alone in this new journey — she’s found a new family on the golf team.

“Our team has a culture that puts an emphasis on embracing healthy competition, communicating openly and supporting each other,“ Wong said. “Golf is a sport that mirrors so much of life, so our ultimate goal is to educate tomorrow’s leaders through the pursuit of competitive golf. I feel incredibly lucky to have amazing mentors and advisors in my teams, Coach Naree, and Director Schernecker.”

This year’s lineup at the Yale Invitational for the team competition was composed of senior captain Meiyi Yan, Bonnie Zhai, Bridget Ma, and Isabella Gomez. Zhai had the best individual score, scoring an impressive bogey — just one stroke over par — to finish tied for sixth place in the event, while Ma and Yan

both tied Wong in 15th place. In 2022, Harvard won the Invitational and made history by posting the lowest team score with a 279 (-5) and a 36-hole total of 565 (-3). This year, the Crimson finished fifth overall as a team, with the squad’s final score of 12-overpar finishing only two shots out of a tie for second place with Penn, Dartmouth, and Boston University. Yale won its home tournament with a score of five-over-par.

As other Harvard students head to the library to prepare for midterms, Harvard will fly westward to Colorado on Friday to compete at the Ron Moore Intercollegiate hosted by the University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch. This will be the Crimosn’s first appearance in the tournament.

Our team has a culture that puts an emphasis on embracing healthy competition, communicating openly, and supporting each other.

Lauren Wong

First-year, Harvard women’s golf

“I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to play,” said Wong regarding the upcoming tournament schedule. “I play the best when I’m totally immersed in the process rather than focusing on the results,“ she continued. “I just want to absorb everything that [is] coming my way and have a growth mindset when it comes to the adversity I face.”

The Crimson’s last tournament this fall is the Lady Blue Hen Invitational in Delaware. Coming off of a strong weekend, Wong is holding her head high as she looks to close out the rest of this season.

“I was excited to have a strong finish in my first collegiate tournament,” she said. “I got some good feedback and am looking forward to improving my game as we head into the final stretch of the fall season.”

No. 1 Women’s Rugby Remains Undefeated

On the back of an outstanding second-half shutout that saw Harvard women’s rugby (5-0, 1-0 Ivy League) score seven unanswered tries against Brown (2-2, 0-1) in a 48-14 victory, Harvard is now undefeated in NCAA play for the first time since 2021. This win gives the Crimson a seven-game winning streak in 15s, the style of play done in the fall season. Additionally, Harvard now holds a score differential of 280–38 through just five games.

The first half grew the match closer down the stretch. Yet, three tries from sophomore wing and flank Lennox London and another 13 points scored off four conversions and a try from sophomore fullback and scrumhalf Skylar Jordan put the Crimson in the lead.

In the span of just minutes, beginning with 28:51 left on the clock, London scored her first try before sophomore center and

fullback Tiahna Padilla found fellow sophomore outside back Cameron Fields for five. A converted kick put Harvard ahead 29-7.

London later intercepted a Brown pass on a drive that looked to yield points, rushing down the sideline. Another conversion from Jordan furthered the lead, making it a 43-7 game.

In its first game on home turf against American International College (0-1, now 2-1 on the season), Harvard posted a 65-0 shutout that saw 12 different players score points. “[It] felt really good, especially as a home opener,” London said. “[I]t was just fun to showcase what [the team has] been trying to implement with our freshmen.”

“Our main goal for the season and our main mantra is just building every game. Each weekend playing better than before,” London continued. “I thought that playing AIC was a great build-off of [how] we played Quinnipiac University the week before.”

Since its earlier matchup against Quinnipiac (0-1, now 2-2 on the season) in Hamden, Conn., offensive and defensive production have improved after Harvard’s 55-14 victory. Quinnipiac’s 14 points were scored in the final ten minutes of regulation —a defensive meltdown that the AIC matchup remedied. Within the first five minutes of that game, London and Padilla both scored tries. After a conversion, the score grew to 12-0 in the first ten minutes.

late in the second half, with earlier contributions from senior back row Charlotte Gilmour and center and flyhalf PK Vincze, who started out the second half scoring.

Our main goal for the season and our main mantra is just building every game.

Following the AIC game, Harvard now firmly holds the alltime 15s series, with two wins in three matchups.

season, alongside Fields.

For London, part of keeping a clear head while playing means not making scoring an individual or team goal. She thinks it should come naturally. “If I just do my job correctly, all the girls who do the work in the middle [do their job correctly], and then I am just there to kind of put it down at the end. … I see [the scoring] more as their work.”

First-year fly half and center Maya Hilger helped carry the team to the finish line, putting up her first two tries of the season

Despite the historic season, the team still wants to control the play. “We are our own opponents if we can get out of our headspace and play our game,” London said. London, who, after Harvard’s most recent win against Brown, now has back-to-back hat tricks and is tied for tries scored this

Continuing to play at such a high level means playing each game one at a time. But that is easier said than done, London explains, especially off the field. In identifying what keys to moving forward throughout the season are, she remarked, “Right now, with midterms coming around, it is taking care of ourselves just mentally and physically, so we are still ready to go by the time November hits.”

Having an undefeated record has made staying fresh and prepared all the more easy.

“I feel that each week we’ve had very specific things we want to implement into the next

game, and we’ve done that, so it is cool to see that because at certain levels you can say you want to do stuff in a game, but when the time comes around you never do,” London added. With sights set on postseason play, the ability to drastically shift what has not been working and incorporate newer players into schemes, regardless of the opponent, will prove helpful in combating the struggles London identified. These shifts can also help the team with different game situations they will face as pressure on both sides of the ball ramps up. Harvard will next face off against No. 11 Princeton on Saturday, Oct. 14, at 12:00 p.m. EST in Princeton, N.J., at West Windsor Rugby Field. Princeton, who most recently played AIC, will need to make a turnaround in scrambling back from a 46-14 loss. Harvard, off a bye week, must find ways to keep up the energy they have had all season that built them an undefeated record.

to bottom, left to

From top

The festivities began with a procession into Tercentenary

right:

H.

President