Harvard's congressional contingent loses its lone woman, Jane Harman

The departure of Jane Harman, J.D. '69, returns the Harvard contingent's total to 31.

The contingent of Harvard matriculants in the 112th Congress totaled 35 for just over a month, until Democratic representative Jane Harman, J.D. ’69, of California, announced on February 8 that she would resign her post to become president, CEO, and director of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, in Washington, D.C.

Harman had been the only woman in the Crimson congressional group since Republican senator Elizabeth Dole, M.A. ’60, J.D. ’65, of North Carolina, left office in January 2009. The Californian’s departure means that the Harvard total for the new session now stands at 34: three Republicans and nine Democrats in the Senate; two Republicans and 20 Democrats in the House.

 

Updated November 7, 2012: The original article failed to note the election of John Garamendi, M.B.A. ’70, Democrat of California, and Terri Sewell, J.D. ’92, Democrat of Alabama, to the 112th Congress. The numbers above have been updated to reflect their presence. After Harman's departure, Sewell became the only woman in the Harvard congressional contingent. 

Related topics

You might also like

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

David Battat promotes alumni engagement.

Plus, veteran higher education leader Thomas Ehrlich reflects on university curricula for his 70th reunion

Most popular

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

Long-discussed reorganization includes layoffs and the end of the Dudley Community.

FAS leaders say restructuring will be complete by mid-October.

Explore More From Current Issue

University Hall with steps and the John Harvard statue, surrounded by trees and a grassy lawn.

Long-discussed reorganization includes layoffs and the end of the Dudley Community.

Colorful cartoon animals, including dogs, cows, rabbits, and a fence, on a pink background.

Inseparable cows, big dogs fostering a tiny kitten, and a show beagle’s second act

Decorative wrought iron gate framed by leafy branches, captured in sepia tones.

Former Indiana University president Thomas Ehrlich looks back on curriculum, co-education, and other major trends.