An Icy Amenity

Photograph by Stu Rosner Dean of the Law School Elena Kagan testified that she decided on the spur of a frozen moment in January...

Photograph by Stu Rosner

Dean of the Law School Elena Kagan testified that she decided on the spur of a frozen moment in January to flood the field by Harkness Commons to form a skating rink. Almost at once, it was done, and incipient lawyers and other Harvardians took to the ice, some to practice hockey moves, others to go around in circles sedately, others to twirl and crash. The rink is lighted for use into the night, and tinny, canned music is occasionally provided. Kagan reportedly got her idea from a 1950s photograph showing the field as a rink, with frolickers. The modern rink will remain open, says the dean, "until it melts."

     

Most popular

Social Media Use and Adult Depression

A survey reveals suprising links between social media use and depression in adults.

Harvard art historian Jennifer Roberts teaches the value of immersive attention

Teaching students the value of deceleration and immersive attention

Mindfulness—the unconventional research of psychologist Ellen Langer

Psychologist Ellen Langer's unconventional research. Plus, read about applying mindfulness techniques to eating.

Explore More From Current Issue

A man in a suit speaks at a podium.

David Battat promotes alumni engagement.

Three actors perform on stage, with one actor interacting closely with another, set against abstract backgrounds.

The play Spare Parts is a contemporary fable about the quest to live forever.

Runners compete on a track, with a Harvard athlete in the foreground and others behind.

After a historic 2025-26 season, athletes eye NCAA championships.