Harvard Graduates Sound Off on Trump Administration's Impact

Harvard Commencement: Graduates Voice Concerns Amidst Political Climate Cambridge, MA – Harvard University held its commencement ceremony on May 29, 2025, a day marked not only by celebration but also by underlying anxieties. The Trump administration's actions against the university have cast a shadow over the event, prompting concerns among students and faculty. Newsweek interviewed several graduates, capturing their perspectives on this pivotal moment. Brynn Macaulay, a recent graduate, expressed her apprehension, stating, "So I'll preface this with saying I'm an American-born person, and so I don't think I can fully ever capture the fear that I think people have felt even before this Trump administration." Her comments highlight a sense of unease extending beyond the current political climate. In contrast, Elaine Lee, another graduate, focused on the importance of diversity for the university's future. She stated, "You know, innovation and creativity, newness of thought really comes from diversity. So it cannot be, you know, isolated to one country or one group or one, you know, homogeneous group of individuals. It really has to be inclusive." Her words offer a counterpoint, emphasizing the university's commitment to inclusivity. The contrasting viewpoints of these graduates underscore the complexities faced by Harvard and other Ivy League institutions navigating political pressures while upholding their commitment to academic excellence and diversity.