Despite ambivalence that some politicians feel about their Harvard affiliation, the Office of Federal Relations has not faced difficulties in making connections with legislators.

“I think it’s up to members how they portray their backgrounds and their affiliations with various organizations and educational institutions,” said Casey.

“We’ve never had any difficulty scheduling meetings because of an affiliation issue.”

LOBBYING

For Harvard, lobbying is a serious task that goes beyond fostering connections with alumni.

The University spends hundreds of thousands of dollars every year on lobbying in an effort to encourage members of Congress to vote favorably on issues such as federal funding for research and student aid.

The University spent $350,000 on lobbying in the first two quarters of FY2012 alone, according to public filings made with the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Harvard Associate Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications Kevin Casey says Harvard uses an “educational” approach to discuss policy issues with members of Congress.

“We want to inform members about how important policies would impact students and faculty and research and the kind of things that are important to our mission that the federal government is partner on,” says Casey.

According to Congressman Brian M. Higgins, a graduate of the Kennedy School, the time he spent at Harvard underscored the importance of research funding.

“It informs what your priorities are as a member of Congress,” says Higgins.

When contacting its alumni, Harvard often tries to find creative ways to connect graduates with their alma mater.

Last March when the Harvard men’s basketball team made it to the first round of the NCAA tournament, Harvard tapped into the enthusiasm surrounding March Madness and sent Harvard NCAA apparel to the offices of Harvard alumni in Congress.

When Faust was invited to give a lecture in Washington D.C., the University hosted a reception with some members of the Harvard delegation on the guest list.

During her trips to Washington, Faust makes an effort to reach out to Harvard alumni whenever possible.