But many say that all overseers, not justcelebrities, are in a time bind. Many Boardmembers hold high corporate positions, forexample.
"Celebrities or not celebrities, most people onthe Board live extremely busy lives," FitzGeraldsaid.
Kirk said Alumni Association representativesasked him if he would have the time to serve onthe Board before nominating him. And Seidman notedthat since Gore's presidential campaign ended, thesenator has been "an extraordinarily involved,active member."
However, some overseers say that the largenumber of celebrities on the Board indicates thatHarvard seeks those with money or a name, insteadof "ordinary" alumni.
More than half the Board's members arecorporate executives or lawyers in privatepractice.
With an Alumni Association slate full ofnewsmakers and corporate heads, FitzGerald said,"we don't wind up with a completely representativeBoard." She said the Board needs people from otherprofessions, such as teachers and doctors.
"This is not a university that can or should berun by the rich and famous," Wood said. "It shouldbe run by a varied blend of loyal people with astrong commitment to Harvard.