For example, it is unclear whether University attorneys believe that "manliness" necessarily precludes female recipients, which might make the prize illegal.

Connors said he passed along all his recommendations to University administrators.

But Dean of the College Harry R. Lewis '68 wrote last night in an e-mail message that he has not heard from the Office of the General Counsel on the subject lately.

Connors said that once legal advice has been rendered to the University, it is the responsibility of the administrator--in this case Lewis--to comply with the recommendation.

Earlier in the week Lewis wrote, "Everything will happen this year as in the past; the review of terms can't be rushed. Next year may well be different, however."

In theory, if Harvard gives a prize against the law, the University could be sued, if a student chose to take legal action.

Paul A. Bohlmann, director of fellowships at the Office of Career Services (OCS), said he collected nominations for the Frothingham from the Houses this spring as usual. The selection committee, chaired by Lewis, has chosen the recipient, Bohlmann said, and the award will be announced on Commencement day.