Under clear skies and warm conditions, thousands of alumni and friends from across the globe gathered at Harvard for the fifth annual Alumni Day on June 5. The event celebrated graduates from all Schools and class years and coincided with the Harvard and Radcliffe College reunions and other alumni activities. The main program, attended by over 9,000 people, featured musical acts, the awarding of Harvard Medals, and speeches from President Alan Garber and keynote speaker Jonny Kim, a physician, Navy SEAL, and former NASA astronaut.
The opening alumni parade, led by chief marshal Alejandra Casillas and the eldest alumni present, Linda Cabot Black and William Dubey, made its way from the Old Yard to Tercentenary Theatre. Middlesex County Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian commenced the event, followed by outgoing Harvard Alumni Association president Will Makris, who reflected on the support he received from faculty, his husband, and friends at Harvard. Emphasizing the global community of alumni, Makris spoke about the shared values and intellectual curiosity that unite them.
Makris introduced the incoming HAA president, David Battat, praising him as a true Harvard ambassador. Sarah Karmon, HAA executive director, applauded the efforts of alumni volunteers, class officers, and reunion committees in organizing the celebrations. She highlighted the themes of connection and resilience among the gathering. The program included a performance of “Radcliffe, Now We Rise to Greet Thee” by several alumni choral groups.
President Garber highlighted the achievements of faculty, students, and alumni over the past year, expressing optimism about the future despite challenges. He noted that fostering open inquiry and dialogue has enhanced Harvard’s excellence, emphasizing the importance of community in advancing the university’s mission. Following a piano rendition of “What a Wonderful World” by Max Jepsen, Garber presented Harvard Medals to Thomas Dingman, Deborah Kaufman Goldfine, and Walter Morris Jr. for their service to the university.
Keynote speaker Jonny Kim, dressed in his blue NASA flight suit, addressed the audience, acknowledging the 101st birthday of Navy veteran William Dubey. Kim shared that his childhood admiration for comic book superheroes inspired his commitment to public service. He cautioned against the “solo hero myth,” emphasizing that true strength lies in collaboration and connection. Kim encouraged his fellow alumni to lead with empathy and understanding, stating that true superpowers come from vulnerability and human connection.
The program concluded with the alumni singers performing “Fair Harvard” before attendees moved to Harvard Yard for a celebration featuring games, photo opportunities, and food trucks. The afternoon included symposia on topics like storytelling and public service, as well as sessions hosted by various Harvard institutes. Alumni also participated in meetups and open houses at several Harvard facilities. The next Harvard Alumni Day is scheduled for June 4, 2027.
Original Source: news.harvard.edu
