"We're trying to formulate a relationship with Harvard," Gay said. "The faculty live in this city and [their children] go to school in this city."

For Harvard's part, Gay is looking to the University to contribute more resources to Somerville.

"They utilize us, but they don't always remember us, " Gay said.

But she stopped short of putting all the blame on Harvard for the lack of a closer relationship. "We haven't always asked," Gay said.

Gay said that although Harvard President Neil L. Rudenstine failed to invite her to a recent forum concerning the relationship between Harvard and the Boston community, she knows Rudenstine and hopes to work with him during her time as mayor.

"We have a healthy respect for each other," she said. Gay said she plans to call Rudenstine "and see what we can do to foster a relationship."

But Gay said that her main goal as mayor is to build on Somerville's past success.

"Overall, we have a very vibrant city and a lot of committed citizens who want the best for the city," Gay said.