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

New Names Proposed for Harvard Extension School Degrees

Long pushed for, the changes would be part of a broader rebranding for the Division of Continuing Education.

Martin Nowak Placed on Leave a Second Time

Further links to Jeffrey Epstein surface in newly released files.

Harvard Academic Workers Begin Strike

A second union joined graduate students on the picket line, emptying labs and classrooms.

Explore More From Current Issue

A girl in blue boots stands on a cliff, holding a leash attached to a glowing, digital dog.

Establishing legal responsibility for autonomous agents

Colorful illustration of a split-level house showing various activities in different rooms.

Can the College do more to prepare students for the real world?

Illuminated hanging sculptures resembling organic forms, casting warm light in a dim space.

Artists Enzo Camacho and Ami Lien turn a colonial symbol from Cambodia inside out.