Harvard 2012 alumni gifts break records

New records are announced on Commencement afternoon.

The thirty-fifth-reunion class of 1977 broke the all-time reunion-gift record by raising “an extraordinary $68.7 million” in contributions as of May 23, reported University Treasurer James F. Rothenberg ’68, M.B.A. ’70, during the HAA’s annual meeting. “That number even makes the president of Harvard smile a little bit,” he joked at the podium. “And, by the way, there are still five weeks remaining in their campaign.”

Other reunion classes also did well. The class of 1962, celebrating its fiftieth reunion, is poised to reach its class gifts and participation goals, and the class of 1987, celebrating its twenty-fifth reunion, “is on track to exceed three goals: total gift, immediate use, and participation,” Rothenberg said. The University declined to release exact figures for these classes, and for the senior class gift.

All alumni fundraisers were publicly thanked for their hard work, with a special nod to Paul Weissman ’52, who has chaired his class’s reunion-gift committee for 60 consecutive years—another Harvard all-time record.

Related topics

You might also like

Radcliffe Institute Announces 2026-2027 Fellows

Scholars will tap Harvard’s intellectual resources during the coming academic year.

Is the Press Still Free?

A Harvard alumni panel discusses New York Times Co. v. Sullivan and threats to journalists today.

At Harvard Talk, Retired Supreme Court Justice Breyer Defends Shadow Docket

The current law professor also spoke about affirmative action, partisanship, and the limits of “bright-line rules.”

Most popular

Harvard Faculty Approve a Cap on A Grades

Reforms to reduce grade inflation will take effect in the fall of 2027.

From the Archives: Animal Research

Every year, scientists use millions of animals—mostly mice and rats—in experiments. The practice provokes passionate debates over the morality and efficacy of such research—and how to make it more humane.

Harvard Discloses Top Earners’ Compensation

The University files its annual report for tax-exempt organizations.

Explore More From Current Issue

Historical battle scene with soldiers in red and blue uniforms, flags waving, chaotic action.

The Harvard-Trained Doctor Who Urged a Revolution

Before his heroic death, General Joseph Warren was dubbed “the greatest incendiary in all of America.”

Mercy Otis Warren in period attire writes at a desk by candlelight, surrounded by books.

The Woman Who Penned the Case for War

Mercy Otis Warren’s poetry and plays incited the Patriot movement.

Illustration of two students in Harvard hoodies, one speaking animatedly to a phone, the other reading, looking annoyed.

We’re All Harvard Influencers, Like It or Not

In the digital age, it’s hard to avoid playing into the mythology.