Welcome to the Palfreys

In the Chaos leading up to students' departure for spring Break, the news almost went unnoticed. Adams House, which had been presided over by Robert and Jana Kiely for nearly a quarter century, had been appointed new masters. Judith S. and John G. "Sean" Palfery '67, both professors of pediatrics, were awarded the post by Dean Lewis just before the start of vacation.

The search committee seems to have made a wonderful choice. The Palfreys have had a long association with Harvard, Sean is a great grandson of Theodore Roosevelt, Class of 1880. The couple first met during a physics class when they were both undergraduate. Their two sons, John and Quentin are both recent graduates of the college. Judith is currently a professor at the Medical School. In short the two know their way around Cambridge.

Of course, following the reign of the Kiely's, the Palfreys will have large shoes to fill. The Kiely's have achieved nearly nythic stature on campus as obstinate opponents of randomization and vigilant guardians of House character. We hope that the Palfreys will work to continue to preserve Adams House's uniqueness.

We also hope that the Palfery era will be one of improved relations between Adams House and the larger Harvard community. Lasy semester's infamous "Gong Incident" and the draconian enforcement of interhouse prohibitions (especially when hardworking Crimson editors come seeking a hot meal) have left a sour taste in many mouths. We recognize that Adams House's newly renovated dinning hall and at times, overwhelming crowd control dilemma. We trust that the Palfreys, two apparently very intelligent people, will discover a solution that pleases residents and outsiders alike.

To the Kiely's we express our profound gratitude for their years of service and a fond adieu. To the Palfreys: Welcome to the jungle.