Sky Blue FC Defender Margaret “Midge” Purce Runs for Harvard Board of Overseers

Despite an untraditional preseason and current NWSL Challenge Cup, Sky Blue FC’s Margaret “ Midge” Purce has been pushing forward. On top of acclimating to a new club while competing in the NWSL Challenge Cup, the 2017 Harvard graduate is one of five candidates campaigning for a seat on the Harvard Board of Overseers, the University’s second-highest governing body.

Harvard Forward — a coalition of alumni, students, and faculty pushing for the University to divest from fossil fuel investments and commit more resources to climate-focused initiatives — began its campaign in October 2019. The group that features Purce on the ballot originated after ongoing frustration with Harvard’s insufficient response to the climate crisis and lack of alumni inclusion in the University’s governance.

The Board of Overseers ballot required candidates to gather 3,000 Harvard alumni signatures for eligibility. After months of campaigning in 50 cities around the world, each candidate received over 4,500 signatures.

The five candidates will advocate for the Harvard Forward platform during their six-year term on the Board. Purce and her fellow alumni call on the University to demonstrate leadership in the fight against climate change, focusing on climate justice, responsible investing, inclusive governance, and student voices.

As a graduate of Harvard College, Purce is committed to holding the University to a higher standard.

“Harvard is falling behind in the climate crisis because our governance is not representative of our alumni and student bodies; I am helping to change that,” said Purce. “I care deeply about serving Harvard alumni and students. Their experiences, beliefs, and ideas are central to maintaining Harvard as a leading global institution that continues to offer a superb learning environment and inclusive experience to all.”

Not only was Purce a two-time All-American and semi-finalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy, but she also received Harvard’s Radcliffe Prize in 2017 as the University’s top female student-athlete. Off the field, she participated in the Race and Ethnicity Program at the Institute of Politics while pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology as a pre-med student.

Purce has continued to advocate for social justice reform throughout her professional playing career. She also serves as a Strategy Consultant for Coaches Across Continents, working with governments, corporations, and community organizations to implement lasting change based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Initially scheduled for April 1 to May 19, this year’s election for the Board of Overseers will take place from July 1 to August 18 due to COVID-19. All Harvard alumni are eligible to vote, except for Corporation members and University employees.

Sky Blue FC proudly stands behind Purce in her campaign for a seat on the Board of Overseers. To learn more about Harvard Forward, visit https://www.harvardforward.org/.

Originally published at https://skybluefc.com on July 5, 2020.