Harvard Arts and Sciences Centennial Medalists

For graduate studies that contributed to society

Head shots of the four Centennial Medalists: Lotte Bailyn, John Hutchinson, Marvin Kalb, and Margaret McIntosh

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences honorands, clockwise from top left: Lotte Bailyn, John Hutchinson, Marvin Kalb, and Margaret McIntosh

Courtesy of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ Centennial Medal, first awarded in 1989 on the occasion of the school’s hundredth anniversary, honors alumni who have made contributions to society that emerged from their graduate studies. It is the highest honor GSAS bestows, and awardees include some of Harvard’s most accomplished alumni. The 2021 recipients, announced on May 26, are: Lotte Bailyn, A.M. ’53, Ph.D. ’56, a social psychologist who studies organizational behavior; John Hutchinson, S.M. ’61, Ph.D. ’63, a mechanical engineer; Marvin Kalb, A.M. ’53, a journalist; and Margaret “Peggy” McIntosh ’56, A.M. ’61, Ph.D. ’67, an advocate for social and educational equity and diversity. 

Published in the print edition of the July-August 2021 issue (Volume 123, Number 6), under the headline “Centennial Medalists.”

You might also like

Harvard Honors Its Oldest Alumni

At 97 and 101, Linda Cabot Black ’51 and William “Bill” Dubey ’46 led the way on Alumni Day.

Harvard College Dean Deming Launches Podcast

In interviews, he traces his guests’ circuitous routes to success.

Graduate Student Workers End Strike

Union members return to work without a contract, but with plans to continue bargaining.

Most popular

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

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

Don’t Be A ‘Solo Superhero,’ Jonny Kim Tells Harvard Alumni

The astronaut, doctor, and Navy SEAL delivered keynote remarks on Alumni Day.

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.

Explore More From Current Issue

Historical battle scene with soldiers in red and blue uniforms, flags waving, chaotic action.

The Harvard-Trained Doctor Who Urged a Revolution

Before his heroic death, General Joseph Warren was dubbed “the greatest incendiary in all of America.”

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.

Woman in historical dress standing in front of green foliage, smiling brightly.

This Harvard Graduate Brings Women of the Revolution to Life

Historical reenactor Lauren Shear reveals tricks of the trade for playing Tory loyalists, Revolutionary poets, and more.