Harvard Alum Named to Kennedy's Seat on Interim Basis

Kirk fills the seat left by the death of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy ’54, LL.D. ’08.

Paul G. Kirk Jr. ’60, LL.B. ’64, will succeed the late Edward M. Kennedy ’54, LL.D. ’08, as U.S. Senator from Massachusetts on an interim basis, Massachusetts governor Deval L. Patrick ’78, J.D. ’82, announced this morning. Kirk, who was a special assistant to Kennedy from 1971 to 1977 and later became chairman of the Democratic Party from 1985 to 1989, has remained close to the Kennedy family; he served as master of ceremonies for the celebration of Kennedy’s life held the evening before the senator’s funeral, and is currently chairman of the Kennedy Library Foundation.

A special election will take place on January 19 to choose the successor who will serve out Kennedy’s full term, which runs through 2012.

 

Related topics
University News
Alumni

You might also like

The University has pushed the adoption of AI into teaching and operations, but faculty resistance is growing louder.

The division is launching a new fundraising effort to support 50 additional students.

President Alan M. Garber used traditional Memorial Church address to consider the unique qualities of human intelligence and learning.

Most popular

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

The 1884 Cannibalism-at-Sea Case That Still Has Harvard Talking

The Queen v. Dudley and Stephens changed the course of legal history. Here’s why it’s been fodder for countless classroom debates.

Lafayette’s Unexpected Gift to George Washington: Pheasants

The two birds will be on display at Harvard this summer.

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

A busy classroom filled with students working at computers, colorful decor, and a bright atmosphere.

Technology

In 2004, a frenzy spread across Harvard Yard in days. Four billion users later, we are only just catching up.

Two laboratory researchers, one seated and one standing, in a scientific lab with equipment.

Research

The stakes are high for this husband and wife: one of them will die if they don’t find a cure.

A football player in a white jersey evades a defender in a green uniform on the field.

Football

Despite personnel losses, Crimson captain Xaviah Bascon is upbeat about the 2026 season.