Harvard College Alumni
Chief Marshal
Serving as chief marshal of alumni during Commencement is a special honor. As a longstanding Harvard tradition that dates back to 1899, this role is elected each year from the ranks of the 25th Reunion Class.
The chief marshal represents all University alumni at Commencement. In a traditional year, they greet classes as they process into Harvard Yard, designate “marshal’s aids” to help with Commencement duties as part of the Harvard Alumni Association’s Happy Committee, and preside over the Chief Marshal’s Spread, one of the most anticipated culinary events of the festivities.
Each August, class officers from the 25th Reunion are contacted and asked to select a class nominating committee. The committee invites suggestions from the Class and screens candidates based on one’s career success, vocations, and avocations; contributions to their community and the larger society; and service to the College. Learn more about the 2021 candidates.
2021 Chief Marshal
Anurima Bhargava
Director and President, Anthem of Us
Learn more about Amurima
Past Chief Marshals
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Feb 13, 2020
Koma Gandy Fischbein ’95 elected chief marshal
The Harvard Alumni Association (HAA) has announced that decorated U.S. Navy veteran and rugby pioneer Koma Gandy Fischbein ’95 will serve as chief marshal at Harvard’s 369th Commencement on May 28. Read More
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Mar 7, 2019
Tracy K. Smith elected chief marshal
U.S. poet laureate Tracy K. Smith ’94 will serve as chief marshal of the alumni at Harvard’s 368th Commencement on May 30. Read More
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Apr 20, 2016
Sandberg named chief marshal
Facebook COO to lead 25th reunion class at Commencement Read More
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Apr 22, 2015
This year’s chief marshal
Writer Farai Chideya ’90 will lead her class for its 25th reunion at Commencement Read More