Aiming for an Impact

Philip R. Kaufman '98 says his goal is to make the undergraduate council a student government with "impact upon every students life each day"

He's got an ambitious campaign platform: He hopes to renovate the MAC and to throw myriad comedy shows, rock concerts and tailgates on campus. He's betting students will fork over another $5 each year to pay for the social activities.

And he wants to reform "Harvard Party policy" by lifting the ban on kegs and by stretching party curfews from 1 to 2 a.m.

Kaufman says he is in "touch with the campus". He's been on the council for three years, is a member of the men's varsity crew and serves as a first year perfect.

He has demonstrated considerable and consistent devotion to the council, says formerly councillor Manisha Bharathi '98. "He's very committed, there is no question."

Former councillor Rud W. Coffey says that Kaufman is a "Facilitator who can lead by helping others in reaching their potential."

"For him to pull off things like the gala Ball and Springfest he had to be motivator," Coffey says. "Phil brings ideas and abilities to empower the council, but he hasn't formed an opinion on every issue.... He is going to be open minded and fair."

Over the past three years Kaufman has been "driving the force" behind events like Springfest, the Harvard-Yale tailgate, and shuttle runs to Logan Airport, says councillor Tally Zingher '99.

Kaufman proposes increasing the council student termbill fee from $20 to $25. The plan would raise $30,000 that he says will fund more social events and also be distributed to student groups.

Kaufman also pledges to restructure the core, saying he'd like to see each department provide one course offering. He is also concerned with the Universal Key-Card access, flexible meal plans and improved campus safety.