Harvard University has announced that Claudine Gay will be its 30th president, making her the first Black person and the second woman to lead the Ivy League school. In a statement, Harvard University said that Gay’s appointment “reflects the profound importance of diversity, inclusion, and belonging at Harvard and in society.” “I am honored and humbled to be chosen as Harvard’s next president,” Gay said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the entire Harvard community to build on our proud history and to ensure that Harvard remains a leader in education, research, and service to the world.”
Gay, who is currently the dean of Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences, will take over from outgoing president Lawrence Bacow on July 1. In a statement, Bacow said she was “delighted” that Claudine Gay would be taking over as president. “Claudine Gay is a world-renowned scholar and leader in higher education with a deep commitment to the liberal arts and sciences,” Faust said. “She is also a trusted colleague and friend.” Claudine Gay, who is 52 years old, joined the Harvard faculty in 2001.
She is a professor of government and of African and African American Studies. Prior to coming to Harvard, she was on the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania. In her role as dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Gay has been responsible for overseeing more than 9,000 students and 2,000 faculty members.
She has also been instrumental in increasing diversity among both students and faculty at Harvard. In a statement released by Harvard, Gay said she was “humbled” by the prospect of becoming the university’s president. “I am deeply committed to furthering Harvard’s vital role in society as a powerful engine for progress,” she said. “I look forward to working with all members of our community to build
