"[Harvard] does help if you're interested in a political career," said Frank, who was a prominent teaching fellow in the government department during his graduate student days in the 60s. "Going to Harvard helps build confidence and helps with the intimidation factor."

Rep. Michael D. Crapo (R-Ida.) also remembers Frank from his days at Harvard Law School. He attended that school with Rep. C. Christopher Cox (R-Calif.) as well.

"I remember seeing Barney Frank," Crapo said. "[Going to Harvard means] there are some personalities you are familiar with."

Crapo says the Harvard community is present on Capitol Hill and all over the world. "When you find that tie, it increases the camaraderie and support," he said.

Losses on Both Sides

Congress lost Harvard graduates from both sides of the aisle. Rep. Amory Houghton Jr. '50 (R-N.Y.) said he has seen his circle of alumni decrease in the last few years; his acquaintances from Harvard include two representatives who recently departed the House, Bill Green '50 and Hamilton Fish Jr. '47.

"We thought alike," Houghton said. "We were all Dewey-Rockefeller Republicans."

Houghton concentrated in government and history. He was involved in the Young Republicans Club.

Despite the losses, Harvard has strong ties to leaders in both houses of Congress. Harvard College alumni currently in the Senate include Jeff Bingaman '65 (D-N.M.), Edward M. Kennedy '54-'56 (D-Mass.) and John D. Rockefeller IV '58 (D-W. Va.).

In the House, Anthony Belienson '54 (D-Calif.), Charles E. Schumer '71 (D-N.Y.) and Nancy L. Johnson '57 (D-Conn.) are all prominent members