Billionaire investor Bill Ackman and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg supported candidates for Harvard University’s board of overseers but failed to get them on the ballot. The candidates were backed after Harvard President Claudine Gay resigned amid criticism of her handling of antisemitism and plagiarism. Ackman and Zuckerberg aimed to bring fresh perspectives to the board, citing concerns about financial mismanagement and protecting students. The candidates fell short of the required votes to secure a spot on the ballot.
Harvard Alumni Association, which selects candidates for the ballot, typically endorses candidates. Those not endorsed face challenges in getting on the ballot due to the association’s increased nomination requirements. Despite the setback, Ackman’s group, Renew Harvard, plans to try again next year as write-in candidates. The board of overseers, the school’s second-highest governing body, has the power to approve Harvard’s president.
Historically, successful challenges to Harvard’s leadership have occurred in 2020 and 2021. Harvard Forward, advocating for divestment from fossil fuels, saw four candidates elected to the board. The board’s influence is exercised through the visitation process, allowing oversight of faculty and departments. The failure of Ackman and Zuckerberg-backed candidates reflects ongoing tensions within Harvard’s governance, signaling a push for change and accountability.
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