Adelphi University urges international students to flee before inauguration

In recent discussions, Alan M. Garber, president of Harvard University, highlighted the need for the institution to reassess its communications approach in light of the Republican Party's electoral success, which he viewed as a significant repudiation of elite institutions. Garber expressed concern over the negative sentiment toward higher education prevalent in Washington, DC, citing bipartisan frustrations directed at Harvard. He underscored the importance of engaging with public criticism empathetically and with humility, acknowledging that he sees valid points in the criticisms being leveled against the university. Garber's remarks came during a closed session with the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and were reported on by the Harvard Crimson. He shared that since taking on his role, he had met with numerous congressional members to discuss the institution's challenges. The university's public relations have faced scrutiny, and Garber recognized the urgency of modifying the messaging strategies going forward. This adjustment is crucial as Harvard navigates potential legislative threats, including a tax on its endowment and inquiries from Congress regarding its practices. Furthermore, recent elections have intensified calls for universities to demonstrate accountability, pushing Harvard to reevaluate its stance and presence in Washington. These developments follow former president Claudine Gay's resignation in January 2024, following a scandal concerning her comments on antisemitism. In the wake of criticism surrounding elite academic institutions, Garber's conciliatory approach signals a shift toward greater openness and engagement with the challenges posed by the new political landscape. Institutions across the country are also reflecting on their acceptance policies, with Harvard announcing it will no longer publicly release acceptance data immediately on decision day, a move aligning with trends seen at other prestigious universities. This new strategy seeks to mitigate pressure on applicants and shift the focus away from rankings and acceptance rates, which have increasingly become points of contention in the admissions process and broader societal discussions.