Lewis describes his role for the council as twofold. One facet, he says, is education. Lewis says he tries to point council leaders in the right direction as they attempt to muster an effective voice for students—“how to make the best argument for things that are important.”

Anticipating criticisms and weeding out possible weaknesses in their arguments, students are more likely to reach real change, Lewis says.

Second, Lewis says he works to ensure that student voice is seriously considered by administrators. When students have advanced a coherent, thoughtful argument, Lewis says, “the responsible thing to do is to respond in kind.”

“On issues where we’ve worked with students in the U.C. over the last few years, it has been a very constructive voice,” Lewis adds.

And now, as Lewis’ departure looms, council members say a powerful administrative voice may be lost will be lost.

“I believe [Lewis] really cares about student life, which is not the case with all administrators,” Lurie says.

—Staff writer William B. Higgins can be reached at whiggins@fas.harvard.edu.