Harvard University Announces Commencement Speakers for the Class of 2026

As Harvard University prepares for its 375th Commencement, the institution has officially unveiled its lineup of speakers for the Class of 2026. The selection of speakers highlights a diverse range of voices from the worlds of comedy, law, media, and public service, reflecting the university’s broad academic and professional reach.

Principal Commencement Speaker

Comedian, writer, and television host Conan O’Brien, a Harvard alumnus, has been named the principal speaker for the university’s 375th Commencement. O’Brien will address the graduating class as they celebrate the culmination of their studies.

Class Day and Convocation Highlights

In addition to the main ceremony, various schools within the university have announced their specific speakers for Class Day and Convocation events:

• Harvard Law School: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu will serve as the Class Day speaker.
• Harvard College: Emmy Award-winning comedian and writer Ronny Chieng is set to address the graduating class during Class Day.
• Harvard Chan School of Public Health: Former CDC director Rochelle Walensky will deliver the Convocation address.
• Harvard Graduate School of Education: Mychal Threets, known as “The Internet’s Librarian,” will provide the Convocation speech.
• Harvard Business School: Former Governor Mitt Romney will appear as the featured alumni speaker for the Class Day celebration.

Academic and Institutional Recognition

Beyond the commencement addresses, the university continues to recognize achievements across its various disciplines. Ruth Simmons, a prominent leader in higher education, has been named the recipient of the Radcliffe Medal. Meanwhile, students continue to push the boundaries of research and innovation. Recent projects include developments in drone technology by SEAS students designed to assist in whale tracking, as well as research initiatives at the School of Dental Medicine covering fields such as artificial intelligence and global health.

Jess Jenkins has been awarded the Radcliffe Fay Prize for her undergraduate thesis, which developed the first suburb-level estimates for intergenerational income mobility in New Zealand.

Key Takeaways for the Class of 2026

• Diverse Perspectives: The speaker lineup bridges the gap between entertainment, governance, and public health.
• Research Excellence: From environmental technology to economic mobility studies, the graduating class continues to contribute to global discourse.
• Institutional Legacy: As Harvard approaches its 375th Commencement, the events underscore the university’s long-standing tradition of engaging with leaders across multiple sectors.

As the university moves toward these milestone celebrations, the focus remains on the accomplishments of the students and the insights provided by the invited speakers. The upcoming ceremonies represent not only the conclusion of the academic year but also a reflection of the university’s ongoing commitment to academic and social engagement.