The Trump administration said it would take $2.2 billion in research funds from the school. Some small donors are doing their best to make up for the shortfall.

Alan Garber, then Harvard University’s interim president, stepped onto a stage in Harvard Yard last May to address thousands of alumni and faculty. As the applause faded, a woman approached the lectern and dumped gold glitter on Garber’s head, shouting about releasing monkeys from Harvard labs.

Now that Harvard has committed to resisting the Trump administration's attempt to exert control over its policies, the university is looking for the money to bankroll the battle. Harvard's fundraising operation already has contacted some of its biggest givers,

President Donald Trump has set his sights on Harvard University after it rebuffed his calls for policy changes regarding antisemitism, and he has reportedly directed the IRS to look into removing its tax-exempt status.