Harvard Medalists

The Harvard Alumni Association surprised President Lawrence H. Summers during its annual meeting on June 8 by awarding him a Harvard Medal for...

The Harvard Alumni Association surprised President Lawrence H. Summers during its annual meeting on June 8 by awarding him a Harvard Medal for outstanding service. Three other medalists were also publicly thanked and cited, by Summers, at the meeting.

Sidney Knafel
Photograph by Stu Rosner
Chester Stone III
Photograph by Stu Rosner
Chase Peterson
Photograph by Stu Rosner

Sidney R. Knafel ’52, M.B.A. ’54, of New York City—As a loyal alumni leader and philanthropist, your enduring commitment to education and to Harvard has built a lasting legacy for our scholars and students, enabling them to make a difference in the world and a world of difference.

Chase Peterson ’52, M.D. ’56, of Park City, Utah—From your medical practice in Salt Lake City, you were called back to your alma mater as dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard College, and later the first vice president for alumni affairs and development. We thank you for making Harvard a better place by advocating change, affirming diversity, and standing up for excellence.

Chester “Chet” Stone III, of Scituate, Massachusetts—As Lord Mayor of Dillon Field House, you were the man behind the mortar for countless Harvard athletes, equipping our students for play and for life through your encouragement, hard work, and bedrock devotion.

Lawrence H. Summers
Photograph by Stu Rosner

Lawrence H. Summers, Ph.D. ’82, of Cambridge—As University President and professor, your passionate pursuit of excellence has left an indelible mark on Harvard, demanding and supplying a bold vision of the future while challenging Harvard to maximize the use of all its resources for the greater good.

 

Most popular

Meet Harvard’s 2026 Student Commencement Speakers

Two undergraduates and a Ph.D. candidate will address the graduating class on May 28.

Ronny Chieng Tells Harvard to ‘Destroy AI’ as Graduates Cheer

The comedian and The Daily Show host gave the keynote address for Class Day 2026.

Harvard Faculty Approve a Cap on A Grades

Reforms to reduce grade inflation will take effect in the fall of 2027.

Explore More From Current Issue

Illustration of two students in Harvard hoodies, one speaking animatedly to a phone, the other reading, looking annoyed.

We’re All Harvard Influencers, Like It or Not

In the digital age, it’s hard to avoid playing into the mythology.

White House and Harvard University buildings split diagonally with contrasting colors.

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Brick archway with a sandy base, surrounded by wooden planks and boxes in a dim space.

How the American Revolution Freed a Future Abolitionist

Darby Vassall, an enslaved child freed after the Battle of Bunker Hill, dedicated his life to fighting for liberty.