It’s important, he explains, to focus on his job at the University.

“Otherwise,” he says, “you really begin to substitute communications and media relations for the true business of the institution. That would be a disaster.”

“The so-called ‘bully pulpit’ is a chain around the neck of any president. Say too much, and you are excoriated for exploiting the Harvard name for a personal (or even an institutional) agenda. Say too little, and you’re accused of failing to use the opportunities that your position provides,” explains Dean of the Faculty Jeremy R. Knowles.

According to Princeton President Howard T. Shapiro, Rudenstine’s reserve has not hampered his influence.

“He doesn’t speak loudly, or even often, but he changes people’s minds about things,” he says.

“I’ve found it much more important, much more effective to choose issues carefully on which I felt I was both more knowledgeable, and also interested and cared about really passionately,” Rudenstine explains.

Rudenstine has spoken out on select issues, sometimes traveling to Washington, D.C. to testify before Congress. He views himself as an “outspoken” national spokesperson for issues such as diversity, affirmative action, scientific funding and student aid.