Archives — Harvard Gazette (2024)

Health

Clear as a bell

New successful, expanded trial of groundbreaking therapy for genetic deafness suggests it may be available relatively soon

That old ‘Gatsby’ magic, made new

Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, now the inspiration for a new A.R.T. musical, never reads the same

Examining the duality of Israel

Expert in law, ethics traces history, increasing polarization, steps to bolster democratic process

‘The only way through is with’

Harvard Alumni Day speakers highlight importance of connection to University community amid times of global discord

Bringing back a long extinct bird

Scientists sequence complete genome of bush moa, offering insights into its natural history, possible clues to evolution of flightless birds

Health

Women who follow Mediterranean diet live longer

Large study shows benefits against cancer, cardiovascular mortality, also identifies likely biological drivers of better health

Why row from Boston to London? Because it’s there.

Spaulding Rehabilitation physiatrist, team taking new route, aim to set records

American Dream turned deadly

He just needs to pass the bar now. But blue-collar Conor’s life spirals after a tangled affair at old-money seaside enclave in Teddy Wayne’s literary thriller

Next up for House renewal: Eliot

Building refresh aims to boost accessibility, preserve historic character

FAS receives gift to bolster arts, humanities, and strengthen financial aid

Business leader Joseph Y. Bae ’94 and novelist Janice Y. K. Lee ’94 expand upon three decades of supporting academic excellence, opportunity at Harvard

Health

Harvard-led study IDs statin that may block pathway to some cancers

Cholesterol-lowering drug suppresses chronic inflammation that creates dangerous cascade

Dean’s legacy honored

Hoekstra, Faust, colleagues laud Robin Kelsey, who will step down from his arts and humanities deanship

Tested most by game he didn’t play

Portrait honors Harvard’s first Black lacrosse player, whose 1941 benching in the South sparked outcry

Health

New Alzheimer’s study suggests genetic cause of specific form of disease

Findings eventually could pave way to earlier diagnosis, treatment, and affect search for new therapies

One way to help big groups of students? Volunteer tutors.

Research finds low-cost, online program yields significant results

Just one family’s history – and the world’s

Claire Messud’s autobiographically inspired new novel traces ordinary lives through WWII, new world orders, Big Oil, and rise and fall of ideals

Digging into the Philippines Collections at the Peabody Museum

Filipino American archivist offers personal perspective to exhibit

‘Shed the tears … get up and fight some more’

Justice Sonia Sotomayor on importance of civic engagement, youth involvement, giving back

When should Harvard speak out?

Institutional Voice Working Group provides a roadmap in new report

Health

Had a bad experience meditating? You’re not alone.

Altered states of consciousness through yoga, mindfulness more common than thought and mostly beneficial, study finds — though clinicians ill-equipped to help those who struggle

Better to be talented or lucky?

If you want fame, Cass Sunstein says, it typically requires some of both — and is no pure meritocracy

Health

Rethinking life-support decisions

Of the survivors within one study group, more than 40% recovered at least some independence.

Health

What to do about mental health crisis among Black males

Symposium examines thorny, multifaceted dilemma from systemic racism in policing, healthcare to stigma attached to psychotherapy in community

Day to remember

One journey behind them, grads pause to reflect before starting the next

Choose bravely, Ressa tells Harvard grads

Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist puts values first in Commencement address focused on threats to democracy

‘Be that voice for compassion, learning, understanding, and unity’

Burns and others deliver call to action – and empathy – at Class Day ceremonies

Six receive honorary degrees

Harvard recognizes educator, conductor, theoretical physicist, advocate for elderly, writer, and Nobel laureate

A joyful noise

Ringing of bells marks 373rd Commencement

Ready to serve

New officers ‘join a long crimson line that goes back to the very founding of this country.’

Harvard awards 9,262 degrees

Totals reflect the 2023-24 academic year