Welcome to today's episode of our podcast! We’re diving into the recent fundraising response from Harvard University after its stand against the Trump administration.

For years, many alumni like Samuel Graham-Felsen hesitated to donate due to Harvard's perceived elitism. But that changed when Harvard rejected demands from Trump’s government—demands that included auditing professors and reporting international students. Graham-Felsen, who recently donated $108, said, “The more Trump punishes Harvard financially, the more I will donate.” This sentiment seems to be resonating across the alumni community, with reports of many first-time donations flooding in.

While some alumni see their contributions as a symbolic act rather than a financial boost to Harvard's multibillion-dollar endowment, it underscores a significant shift in how the university is viewed. Gil Pimentel, from the Class of '84, stated, “It’s a case that’s bigger than Harvard... our democracy is over” if the administration is allowed to act without due process.

Interestingly, even critics of Harvard, like community college presidents, recognize the unfair treatment the university faces. Amidst this climate, notable alumni, including former President Barack Obama, have praised Harvard's defiance.

As more voices rise in support of Harvard's stance, this moment is proving to be a pivotal one for both the institution and its alumni. Stay tuned for more insights on this unfolding story!
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