The Chief Marshal represents all University alumni at Harvard Alumni Day. In a traditional year, the Chief Marshal greets classes as they process into Harvard Yard, invites alumni marshals to help with Alumni Day duties working in partnership with the Happy Committee, and hosts the Chief Marshal’s Luncheon.

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.

Read about the 2024 candidates

Baratunde Thurston headshot

Class of 1999 elects Baratunde Thurston as chief marshal of alumni

February 14, 2024

Writer, TV host, comedian, commentator to join in 125-year-old tradition.

Past Chief Marshals