Farewell

Remembering Henry Rosovsky

Henry Rosovsky

Henry Rosovsky | Photograph by Jim Harrison

Henry Rosovsky, JF ’57, Ph.D. ’59, LL.D. ’98, was an exemplary Harvard citizen, a towering intellect, and—unusually in combination with those attributes—a brilliant leader and administrator. Geyser University Professor and dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences emeritus, former acting president and past member of the Corporation, Rosovsky concluded his Harvard service with the last and least of his formal roles (but the most important to us) as president of the Harvard Magazine Inc. Board of Directors from 2006 to 2015. When we erred, he told us so, and how to make things right. When the magazine was misunderstood, he outlined what he could and would do to remedy the problem—and he did. Always, he was curious, widely informed about history and culture, wise about human nature, witty, and a great gossip. We deeply mourn his death November 11, at age 95.

We titled our tribute, in the January-February 2016 issue, “Henry the Great.” That is one thing we’re proud to have gotten exactly right. —The Editors

Related topics

You might also like

Derek Bok donated his car for a good cause.

A theatrical reenactment explores a 1976 clash between science and democracy.

Until the 1950s, professionals cleaned up after students in the dorms.

Most popular

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

All That’s Unseen charts the Harvard graduate’s uneasy journey from Appalachia to Cambridge and back.  

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

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.

A man in a suit speaks at a podium.

David Battat promotes alumni engagement.

Three hands hold smartphones displaying social media profiles with likes and hearts.

Tell us about how social media impacts your daily life.