Keohane's success in enhancing the image of Wellesley draws particular praise.

"She's done a lot for improving the visibility of Wellesley," says Mary R. Lefkowitz, a professor of classics. She also stresses the importance of Keohane's work in advancing women's education.

Keohane has been particularly successful in her capital campaign fundraising drive. "She makes you want to take out your check book and write out a check," says Goldman.

"Harvard should be lucky to raise as much money as she has," says Jonathan B. Imber, professor of sociology at Wellesley.

The only thing about Keohane that elicits negative feelings at Wellesley is the possibility of her leaving for Cambridge.

"The general consensus of students was that they would be very sad to see her go," says Farhana Khera, president of the Wellesley College Government.

"It's sort of mixed feelings," says Beth D. Diamond, another student leader. "I'm excited for her, but I'd hate to see her go."

The Talk of the Hoosier State

Among the top candidates for the Harvard presidency, Ehrlich of Indiana is unique in being the head of a state university.

In general, the mood among Indiana University faculty and students appears to be one of ambivalence. The sheer size of the university, which consists of eight separate campuses, makes Ehrlich a distant figure.

"I don't think people realize how possible it is" that Ehrlich will be selected as the next Harvard president, says Jay J. Judge, who covers the administration beat for the Indiana Daily Student. "I don't think many people take it seriously. The president is pretty removed from campus."

Judge says that many students are unaware of Ehrlich's candidacy. Those who do know about it feel they will be affected only minimally, he says.

"[Students] think of him as a guy out of touch," Judge says. "They see him as removed and they think that's the way he wants it."

However, some faculty members say they are concerned that Ehrlich might leave Indiana. They praise his close cooperation with the faculty.

"We think Mr. Ehrlich is an excellent president," says Professor Myrtle Scott, president of the faculty council. "We'd like to keep him.

"He has a lot of energy," she adds. "He is a very active president. He has a million ideas a minute."

Scott says that she doubted Ehrlich would accept the Harvard presidency--even if selected--because of his dedication to "public educational institutions" like Indiana.