Counter often uses the Foundation's and his own prestige to attract prominent speakers to campus. Last year, Counter helped AAA bring Connie Chung for its annual conference.

This year at the students' request Counter has invited Dr. David Ho, an AIDS researcher and Time Magazine's 1996 man of the year, to speak to AAA and the Foundation.

Counter acknowledges that the Foundation avoids hosting guests who might spark controversy.

"When we put on events we have to make sure we bring everyone together," Counter said, noting that cultural issues often intersect with political differences.

John E. Dowling, Cabot professor of the natural sciences and master of Leverett House, said that Leverett is glad to host Foundation speakers.

"These are role models for our students," Dowling said. "When we've had some of these guests it's been standing room only."

A Multicultural Center?

Counter notes that certain Houses, such as Leverett, have been leaders in supporting Foundation activities. However, he acknowledges that cultural and ethnic groups on campus often have trouble finding space for events, and turn to him for help.

"You can see why people say if we had a building here we can just use it all the time," Counter said.

However, the Foundation has not taken a position on the long-held demand for a multicultural student center. Such demands originated in the 1970s, when students demanded the creation of a Third World Center.

But Harvard officials, notably Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III, have repeatedly refused those demands, saying the Foundation is an adequate institution for promoting diversity at the College.

Ravi K. Dixit '00, a member of the SAC representing the South Asian Association, said that the Foundation should be fighting for a multicultural student center.

"Personally I think it's a fit that if you have a Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations they should fight for a center for intercultural and race relations," Dixit said.

But Counter said that a multicultural student center should not be necessary.

"I think that Harvard is a very unique place," Counter said. "Every building is a multi-cultural center."