<p>4th floor, I agree with much of what you wrote about "reality checks" for faculty members seeking promotion. The obvious problem is how to implement them so they can improve the department and university, without causing the incredible bitterness that has occurred. But IMO, Summers' approach (e.g. personally vetoing the tenure promotions for apparently accomplished faculty members whom he didn't find "worthy" of the position for whatever reason -- without being an expert in the field, when departmental and external members had unanimously voted to grant tenure) could not have been more wrong. Unfortunately that type of arrogance seemed completely characteristic of his overall personality ... hence the current situation.</p>
<p>IMO, these qualities are what definies good "leadership," and Summers was critically lacking. I defintely agree that he had some good ideas ... but all of the chest-banging and insults/intimidation to subordinates suddenly made all of those good ideas irrelevant.</p>
<p>Having said that: any ideas about potential successors? Insider or outsider? One of the Stanford deans, etc...?</p>
<p>Well, Bok will have enough stature as an interim to keep the FAS philistines from o'ertopping the barricades. A permanent successor will have to have plenty of steel in him/her. Harvard simply can't afford another "caretaker" like Rudenstine was (or, frankly, like Bok was in the last 5 years of his previous reign.)</p>
<p>As I said before, Everybody had to know this was coming after a vote of no-confidence (and another coming) from the largest and best-endowed division of the University.</p>
<p>Considering what Summers did accomplish, along with the resignation of 2 deans at FAS, perhaps he felt that he had changed the atmosphere already. Thus, his job was done.</p>
<p>But, what do I know, I am just an outside observer with virtually no ties to the university.</p>
<p>If it were my decision I would suggest someone strong in bio-tech because that is where they are really expanding. Similar to the appointment made by MIT. Perhaps someone like the dean of their medical school. Regardless, it will be interesting to watch from afar.</p>
<p>Well, earlier in this thread we discussed the inconsistent position of Harvard in not allowing military recruiters on campus while accepting federal funds. Today the Supreme Court handed down the actual ruling in the case. Bascially, if you want to receive federal funds then you need to allow equal access to militray recruiters.</p>