Imagine leading one of the world's most prestigious universities in a time of both extraordinary challenge and opportunity. That's what Lawrence Bacow did, serving as Harvard University's 29th president from July 2018 until his retirement in June 2022. A respected economist and lawyer, Bacow steered Harvard through critical periods, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, when the global education landscape was being redefined. Under his leadership, discussions were not just about bridging gaps in education but also about promoting accessibility and diversity, while balancing traditional values with innovation.
Lawrence Bacow, born on August 24, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, isn't just a name in academia; he is a towering figure who has consistently advocated for educational access and equity. Bacow's parents were immigrants, fleeing Nazi-era violence, and their experiences deeply shaped his worldview. This unique background, coupled with an impressive educational journey—an undergraduate degree from MIT, a J.D. from Harvard Law School, and a Ph.D. in public policy from Harvard’s Kennedy School—provided him with a multifaceted perspective on the importance of education in societal advancement.
Before stepping into the shoes of Harvard’s president, Bacow was the president of Tufts University from 2001 to 2011. His tenure at Tufts was marked by an emphasis on community engagement and interdisciplinary learning. Bacow’s leadership style stuck out because he listened intently and valued collaboration and consensus-building over top-down decision-making. This ability to steer dialogue was critical as he transitioned to Harvard, where debates around inclusion and the systemic barriers faced by underrepresented groups were coming to a head.
Bacow's time at Harvard was not without its challenges. He inherited a campus buzzing with debates about institutional responsibilities in the age of heightened social awareness. Harvard, like many elite institutions, faced scrutiny over matters of diversity, access, and its historical ties. Under Bacow’s guidance, the university made notable strides in its commitment to increasing the representation of marginalized communities, including a comprehensive investigation into its links to slavery and dedicated efforts to support first-generation college students.
Critics, however, argue that while progress was made during Bacow's presidency, systemic inequities are deeply rooted, requiring continuous effort beyond his term. Bacow’s approach to incremental change sometimes met with resistance from those who wanted quicker, more radical solutions. Much like the broader societal conversations about equity, these concerns highlight the tension between maintaining the stability of institutions and the demand for rapid transformation.
The COVID-19 pandemic tested Bacow's leadership in unprecedented ways. With campuses shuttered and traditional learning environments upended, Bacow led Harvard through a swift transition to remote learning. This move was part of a larger shift that exposed digital divides among students—an unexpected outcome that served as a stark reminder of ongoing inequities in education. Under Bacow’s leadership, Harvard launched initiatives to support students facing financial hardships and lack of technological resources, although critics pointed out that more could have been done.
Beyond his administrative acumen, Bacow is known for his humility, intellect, and approachable demeanor. His speeches often highlight the moral imperatives of education as a public good, underscoring the responsibility prestigious universities hold in shaping future change-makers. Bacow’s belief in education as a ladder toward a better, more equitable society resonates with younger generations who see education as a key battleground for social justice.
Political differences don't elude any public figure, and Bacow is no exception. His decisions have occasionally drawn discontent from both conservatives and liberals, illustrating the often-polarizing nature of university leadership. As universities across the United States grapple with free speech debates on campuses, Bacow has advocated for maintaining campuses as spaces for rigorous discourse while cautioning against the perils of misinformation. This balanced approach, though commendable by some, draws criticism from those who feel universities should take a more definitive stance against dangerous rhetoric.
In sum, Lawrence Bacow's presidency is a period marked by significant trials and triumphs in redefining educational policies for a rapidly changing world. His legacy illustrates the enduring tension between tradition and progress, a struggle deeply familiar to Gen Z and millennials forging their paths in an era defined by rapid change and evolving social norms. Bacow’s story is a testament to the enduring power of dialogue, empathy, and education. These values not only help lead prestigious universities but resonate with a broader audience striving for a more inclusive and equitable society.