Harvard News: New Dean, Federal Funding Talks, Office Changes, International Student Update, and Fall Opportunities

Good afternoon, Harvard community. Today is Monday, August 4, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus. Currently, it's partly sunny in Cambridge with a temperature of 66 degrees Fahrenheit. As the day progresses, expect hazy sunshine with temperatures reaching up to 88 degrees by late afternoon. Remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen if you're spending time outdoors. Effective July 1, 2025, David Deming has assumed the role of Dean of Harvard College. An economist specializing in education, labor markets, and economic inequality, Dean Deming previously served as the Isabelle and Scott Black Professor of Political Economy and directed the Malcolm Wiener Center for Social Policy. He also held the position of Faculty Dean at Kirkland House. We look forward to his leadership in enhancing the undergraduate experience. Harvard is currently engaged in negotiations with the Trump administration regarding a potential settlement to restore federal research funding. The administration had previously frozen $2.5 billion in grants, citing concerns over alleged antisemitism and the university's diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Reports suggest that a settlement of up to $500 million is under consideration. This situation is part of a broader federal initiative affecting several universities nationwide. In response to evolving federal guidelines, Harvard has renamed its Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging to the Office for Community and Campus Life. This change reflects the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment while adapting to external pressures. Additionally, the new office has announced that it will not host or fund affinity group commencement celebrations this year. The federal government recently revoked Harvard's certification for enrolling international students. However, a federal judge temporarily halted this action the following day. President Alan M. Garber condemned the move as "unlawful and unwarranted," emphasizing its potential impact on thousands of students and scholars. The university is actively working to resolve this issue to ensure that international students can continue their education without disruption. - : Harvard students, faculty, fellows, and staff are invited to participate in free monthly bus trips to visit Harvard Forest, located 70 miles west of Harvard Square. These trips offer a unique opportunity to engage with the university's ecological research initiatives. - : Applications are now open for two remote, part-time graduate student internships focusing on Eastern Woodlands Raptor Ecology and Indigenous Forestry, as well as K-12 Climate Education. These positions are available to enrolled Harvard graduate students for the Fall 2025 semester. That's all for today's update. Stay informed, stay engaged, and take care.