Epps says that the exception for HSA was made more than 30 years ago, owing to the complexity and variety of skills needed to run the organization.

"[HSA] needed specialists of a variety of kinds," says Epps. "There was not such competency in FAS.... Also at issue is the sheer complexity of the organization."

But PBHA officials think that there is no reason that their case is different.

"I see us as a non-profit analogue of HSA," says Roy E. Bahat '98, treasurer of PBHA.

Epps also says he thinks PBHA could create special trustee seats on the board that would provide PBHA with the advice and guidance that it is seeking.

But PBHA officials say that role is already being fulfilled successfully by its Association Committee.

The Association Committee has 15 local members and 11 national members and is chaired by Anne H. Peretz, who will sit on the new board of trustees as well.

According to Ehrlich, the idea of the new board is to involve representatives from the Harvard community in important decisions relating to community service.

But Kidd says giving PBHA its own board that will distribute the funds given by Harvard is similar to a donor being asked to give money with no strings attached.

"If you were taking money from an independent donor, you would have to treat that donor with respect," the new assistant dean says. "[Donors] never give away money without strictures.... That would be outlandish."

But Bahat says he does not think the purpose of giving is receive.

"A donor donates to a cause because he believes in it, not because he wants to attach strings," Bahat says.

One additional issue of conflict between the University and PBHA is who will direct PBHA programs.

Epps says he wants Kidd to be appointed head of PBHA so that she will have a dual position as assistant dean of public service and director of PBHA.

But the students say Kidd can not become executive director of PBHA because she is employed by the College.