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 CarnesaleYou 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

The Harvard-Radcliffe Collegium Musicum reunites for a 50th anniversary tour around France.

He was Harvard’s quintessential people person.

The former economics concentrator brings his talent for crunching numbers to netminding.

Most popular

In her memoir All That's Unseen, Emilee Hackney explores religion, friendship, and home.

A new federal rule sparks uncertainty for graduate students.

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

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

Explore More From Current Issue

Harvey Mansfield seated in a bright yellow chair, surrounded by bookshelves and cozy decor.

The retired government professor has been a rare conservative voice on campus for decades.

A vibrant group of dancers in colorful outfits poses on a stage with shiny decorations.

The Harvard Arts Medalist wants his smash-hit Cats revival to reach “as many young queer people” as possible.

An open book with a film strip emerging, trailing popcorn and a dancer silhouette.

Readers Respond to Our Adaptations Survey

We asked people to share their favorite art adaptations. Here’s what they said.