Harvard President Steps Down

doi:10.1126/science.311.5764.1085b

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Lawrence Summers, the economist who in 5 years as president of Harvard University became a lightning rod for controversy, resigned 21 February amid a faculty rebellion spurred by the resignation of Arts and Sciences Dean William Kirby. The faculty at Harvard's largest school was preparing a second no-confidence vote; the first came last March after Summers's comments about women in science and his handling of other issues (Science, 28 January 2005, p. 492). Summers won respect for his support for research, including plans for a new science hub to be built in nearby Allston. "My greatest hope is that the University will build on the important elements of renewal that we have begun over the last several years," Summers said in a statement.

Summers, who will step down 30 June, plans to remain on the faculty as a professor. Derek Bok, who led the university from 1971 to 1991, will be interim president.