The 2011 Harvard Medalists

For outstanding service to the University, a Commencement afternoon thank-you

From left to right: Albert Carnesale, Frances Fergusson, and Peter Malkin

From left to right: Albert Carnesale, Frances Fergusson, and Peter Malkin | Photographs by Stu Rosner

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

Albert Carnesale—You were a towering source of strength for the Harvard community, serving as a professor and dean of the Kennedy School, fostering a new era of collegiality, curiosity, and cross-school collaboration as provost, and providing incisive intellectual leadership—to this University and to several United States presidents—on international affairs and the security of the nation.

Frances Fergusson, Ph.D. ’73, RI ’75—Your service to Harvard knows no bounds; as president of the Board of Overseers, as a leader on visiting committees, and as a thoughtful voice on governance, you have acted with energy, creativity, and resolve, advancing the University’s devotion to learning and helping imagine its future.

Peter Malkin ’55, J.D. ’58—Inspiring all who care deeply for Harvard, you have been a true University citizen, serving as a trusted adviser to presidents and deans, championing public service as a core University ideal, and making it possible through your extraordinary generosity for new generations of outstanding young men and women to fulfill their dreams of a Harvard education.

Malkin was surrounded by Harvard children and grandchildren—among the latter, no fewer than six who’ve been in the College in recent years (Louisa Malkin ’09 and Matthew Blumenthal ’08), are still enrolled (Malkins Eliza ’13 and Emily ’14), or had just “joined the fellowship of educated men and women” (Michael Blumenthal and Becky Malkin, both class of ’11).

Related topics

You might also like

Three Harvard Alumni and a Former Postdoc Named MacArthur Fellows

A labor economist, an organic chemist, a physicist, and a memory researcher were honored with 2026 “genius” grants.

Meet the Harvard Alumni Association’s New President

David Battat promotes alumni engagement.

Thank You, Bill Kirby

The president of Harvard Magazine’s Board of Directors will step down in September.

Most popular

Trump Administration Will Investigate Alleged Visa Fraud at Harvard

The announcement comes two days after a federal appeals court heard arguments about an international students ban.

Harvard Alumni Win Two 2026 Nobel Prizes

Karl Deisseroth revolutionized neuroscience. Navanethem “Navi” Pillay has adjudicated cases in international courts concerning genocide.

A Play for the Ages Propels Crimson Football to Victory

Dick Friedman on Harvard’s 20-17 win over Colgate

Explore More From Current Issue

University Hall with steps and the John Harvard statue, surrounded by trees and a grassy lawn.

Long-discussed reorganization includes layoffs and the end of the Dudley Community.

A vibrant illustration of a red car parked, surrounded by cheerful people and historic buildings.

Derek Bok donated his car for a good cause.

A glowing bulb shape surrounded by colorful, swirling energy lines against a blue background.

Harvard researchers achieve medical breakthroughs in cancer therapy and infection control.