Harvard University has begun advertising to fill its general counsel opening, with the posting acknowledging that the position has taken on greater importance “in the context of the heightened social, political and philanthropic scrutiny currently faced by the university.”

The current general counsel, Diane Lopez, announced Nov. 30 that she would retire at the end of February, capping a 30-year career with the university, the last five years as general counsel.

Diane Lopez, outgoing GC. Photo: Kris Snibbe/Harvard