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Planet Harvard

by Noel Tyl
March/April 2008

Michael Bloomberg is a born giant-humanitarian, elevating every investment in his life, monetary and social, beyond any political interest. From April to May 2008, he may face matters of grief and even health concerns, weakening him for a public fight in late summer. Late in the year, his future is clarified: a final career in philanthropy focusing on educational and spiritual programs. He will decide upon a major social services project in July and August 2009 to be launched in January 2010.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke shows high-minded, idealist charisma to go along with an enormous intellect. Is his appropriate home in academia rather than a fiscal control center? This probably becomes a strong private issue for Bernanke, beginning April-May 2008, peaking in December, echoing in spring 2009. There’s a spiritual sensitivity, a philosophical bent gaining focus behind the scenes. A high-octave intuition will lead him elsewhere, away from the job he does so well to something more spiritually, residually valuable—at least in his mind.

DREW GILPIN FAUST brings a details-dedicated, patient, historical perspective to her office. She’s in control and capable of independent positioning. She is guided by visions of social service—the university dramatically at work within society. A major program success will mark her tenure in February 2010.