In a question-and-answer session that followed Summers' statement to the press, and an exclusive Crimson interview afterwards, Harvard president-designee Lawrence H. Summers carefully avoided making statements about University policy, repeating that he was not yet adequately prepared to deal with specifics at this early stage.

"At this point my priority will be on listening and consulting with members of the community," Summers said. "When the time is right, I will have the opportunity to speak in more detail about directions in which the University will go."

This sort of answer was repeated multiple times during both interviews when questions became specific.

Summers also begged off answering questions about University land purchases, town-gown relations and administrative decisions regarding the office of the provost.

Decisions regarding University land acquisitions in Watertown and Allston and their subsequent development will likely be made when the 27th president takes over July 1--especially because of hints that some of Harvard's schools may move across the river.

And although past presidents have held differing opinions about the necessity of a provost, Harvard's second highest post, the issue is likely to especially hairy for Summers. Provost Harvey V. Fineberg '67 was one of the three finalists for the presidency, and it is unclear what his plans and future at the University are.

While avoiding policy issues, Summers eagerly responded to questions about educational philosophy and his vision for the University.

"There is no substitute for direct personal interaction between a learner and a teacher. There is some room to promote that interaction," Summers said.