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

A new book explores the Harvard-trained architect’s vision and impact, from Ground Zero to the Smithsonian.

Derek Bok donated his car for a good cause.

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

Most popular

The University will compensate families of those whose remains were sold and establish a scholarship to honor anatomical donors.

Football: The Tapestry

David C.K. McClelland’s famous Lampoon cover

Harvard art historian Jennifer Roberts teaches the value of immersive attention

Teaching students the value of deceleration and immersive attention

Explore More From Current Issue

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

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

A vibrant illustration of a red car parked, surrounded by cheerful people and historic buildings.

Derek Bok donated his car for a good cause.

A smiling elderly man in glasses sits comfortably in a striped armchair.

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