Harvard’s Governance Crisis Fuels DEI Debate
Case
Teaching Notes
Abstract
The ongoing cultural debate surrounding the roles of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and environmental, societal, and governance (ESG) policies in business reached a boiling point in early 2024 when Harvard University President Dr. Claudine Gay resigned following unsubstantiated accusations of plagiarism and antisemitism. The campaign against Dr. Gay was mounted predominately by Harvard leaders and donors who felt Gay’s focus on leading change by way of DEI and ESG policies was politically rather than business motivated. This case covers the controversy and asks students to discuss its fallout in terms of leadership, governance, and DEI in organizations.
This case was prepared for inclusion in Sage Business Cases primarily as a basis for classroom discussion or self-study, and is not meant to illustrate either effective or ineffective management styles. Nothing herein shall be deemed to be an endorsement of any kind. This case is for scholarly, educational, or personal use only within your university, and cannot be forwarded outside the university or used for other commercial purposes.
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