Indeed, Rudenstine says there are more "planned holes" in his schedule than there were in his first three year.

"It just gives one time to do some things during the day, even if it only takes a phone call or answering letters or whatever it may be or meeting ad hoc with someone--things that used to be done at night or on weekends" the president says.

Rudenstine is also taking occasional planned vacations. This summer, for example, he spent several weeks in Europe. Last winter, while he was on his leave, he took a trip to the Caribbean.

Rudenstine is also taking more time to relax day-to-day. Several of Rudenstine's aides have said they were surprised to find him milling about with his wife, dressed in casual clothes, during October's Head of the Charles rowing regatta.

And Rudenstine himself has said he is attempting to make his schedule less demanding.

"I don't think we could say that there is a whole lot less in the way of events, but it is true that there are simply more better periods so that when the events come, we spend a little more time [in between]," he says.

Others credit Carnesale for stepping up to take off the burden.

"We've all now learned how valuable a role the provost can play," says Divinity School Dean Ronald F. Thiemann.

And, Rudenstine's colleagues say, the fresh start has been good for him.

"He's looking reinvigorated and as energetic as ever," says Vice President for Administration Sally Zeckhauser. "He seems to be doing just fine."