2009 Harvard Medalists

Three people received the Harvard Medal for outstanding service and were publicly thanked by President Drew Faust during the Harvard Alumni Association’s annual meeting on the afternoon of Commencement day. 

John F. Cogan Jr. ’49, J.D. ’52—Consummate counselor and University citizen, you have set the pace for generous and thoughtful alumni leadership, serving as chair of two Harvard Law School Campaigns and member of Visiting Committees to the Law School, the Davis Center for Russian Studies, and Harvard’s art museums, combining your keen knowledge of the law, international business, and the arts to strengthen your Alma Mater.

Photograph by Stu Rosner

Harvey V. Fineberg

Harvey V. Fineberg ’67, M.D. ’71, M.P.P. ’72, Ph.D. ’80—Loyal and illustrious alumnus, holding posts as Provost of Harvard University and Dean of the Harvard School of Public Health, you have successfully brought together professors, practitioners, and the public throughout your career, helping to improve health and human rights by your commitment to science and civil discourse. 

Photograph by Stu Rosner

Patti B. Saris

Patti B. Saris ’73, J.D. ’76—From Boston to the federal bench, you have been an inspirational and enthusiastic leader for Harvard, daring to make a difference while serving with dedicated distinction as President of the Harvard Board of Overseers, Chief Marshal of the Alumni for the Class of 1973, and Chair of the HAA Nominating Committee for Overseers and Elected Directors.