Harvard’s leadership overhaul and a surge of institutional solidarity after public attacks have driven a rebound in donations and applicant interest, according to commentary from university insiders. The piece credits a coalition of peer institutions, alumni and donors who rallied behind Harvard as the university moved to address governance shortcomings and restore confidence. The account notes record current‑use gifts and a spike in small donors during fiscal year 2025, and says Harvard’s renewed focus on governance and communications helped stabilize morale among faculty and applicants. The episode illustrates how political pressure can catalyze philanthropic and institutional responses that change campus trajectories.