125 Famous & Notable Harvard Alumni & Former Students

Few colleges and universities are as famous as Harvard University, and Harvard has the alumni list to back up that reputation! 

Founded in 1636, this Ivy League school boasts world-class faculty members, superior research opportunities, and traditions that are steeped in as much history and pride as the school itself. Every year, thousands of students submit college applications to Harvard, and only about 3 to 4% are invited to attend. 

All of these factors combine to produce some of the world’s most brilliant minds and influential people. Here is a list of the top 125 most famous Havard alumni, including presidents, entrepreneurs, celebrities, artists, and more!

Top 125 Famous & Notable Harvard Alumni

If you’re interested in who is included among Harvard University’s most famous and notable alumni, it won’t take you too long to begin recognizing names! The list is an impressive “who’s who” of Harvard graduates. 

You’ll find famous actors, scientists, and humanitarians, not to mention eight presidents of the United States: John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Rutherford B. Hayes, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.

Name	Field/Department	Program/Course	Distinguished Role
Barack Obama	Politics	Law	44th President of the United States
Michelle Obama	Law	Juris Doctor	Former First Lady of the United States
John F. Kennedy	Politics	Government	35th President of the United States
Al Gore	Government	Bachelor of Arts	Former Vice President of the USA
George W. Bush	Business	MBA	43rd President of the United States
Mark Zuckerberg	Computer Science	Dropped Out	CEO of Facebook
Bill Gates	Computer Science	Dropped Out	Co-founder of Microsoft
Ruth Bader Ginsburg	Law	Juris Doctor	Former Associate Justice, US Supreme Court
Neil deGrasse Tyson	Physics	Bachelor of Arts	Astrophysicist and Science Communicator
Natalie Portman	Psychology	Bachelor of Arts	Academy Award-Winning Actress
Sheryl Sandberg	Economics	Bachelor of Arts, MBA	Former COO of Facebook
Conan O’Brien	History	Bachelor of Arts	Television Host
Henry Kissinger	Political Science	BA, MA, PhD	Former US Secretary of State
Robert F. Kennedy	Law	Bachelor of Arts	Former US Attorney General
Noam Chomsky	Linguistics	Graduate Studies	Linguist and Philosopher
Leonard Bernstein	Music	Bachelor of Arts	Composer and Conductor
T.S. Eliot	Literature	Bachelor of Arts	Poet and Playwright
Ben Bernanke	Economics	PhD	Former Chairman of the Federal Reserve
Susan Wojcicki	History and Literature	Bachelor of Arts	Former CEO of YouTube
Ratan Tata	Business	Advanced Management Program	Industrialist
Helen Keller	English Literature	PhD	First deaf-blind person to earn a BA
Theodore Roosevelt	Politics	Bachelor of Arts	26th President of the United States
Matt Damon	English	Dropped Out	Academy Award-Winning Actor
Rashida Jones	Comparative Religion	Bachelor of Arts	Actress and Producer
Michael Bloomberg	Engineering	MBA	Former Mayor of New York City
Tommy Lee Jones	English	Bachelor of Arts	Academy Award-Winning Actor
John Adams	Law	Bachelor of Arts	2nd President of the United States
Natalie Merchant	Music	Bachelor of Arts	Singer-Songwriter
Pete Buttigieg	History and Literature	Bachelor of Arts	Former Mayor of South Bend
John Lithgow	History and Literature	Bachelor of Arts	Actor
Jeremy Lin	Economics	Bachelor of Arts	Professional Basketball Player
W.E.B. Du Bois	History	PhD	Civil rights activist, NAACP co-founder
Steve Ballmer	Applied Mathematics and Economics	Bachelor of Arts	Former CEO of Microsoft
Roger Kornberg	Chemistry	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Eric Maskin	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Paul Samuelson	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
James Rothman	Cell Biology	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Robert Merton	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Michael Kremer	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Saul Perlmutter	Astrophysics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
Amartya Sen	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize Winner
William Faulkner	Literature	Honorary Degree	Nobel Prize Winner
Toni Morrison	Literature	Honorary Degree	Nobel Prize Winner
Bob Dylan	Literature	Honorary Degree	Nobel Prize Winner
Kofi Annan	Public Administration	Honorary Degree	Former UN Secretary-General
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf	Public Administration	Honorary Degree	Former President of Liberia
Ban Ki-moon	Public Administration	Honorary Degree	Former UN Secretary-General
Juan Manuel Santos	Public Administration	Honorary Degree	Former President of Colombia
Doris Lessing	Literature	Honorary Degree	Nobel Prize Winner
Malala Yousafzai	Human Rights	Honorary Degree	Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Deval Patrick	Legal Education	Law School	Governor of Massachusetts
Charles Krauthammer	Medicine	MD	Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist
Jack Lemmon	War Service Sciences	Bachelor’s	Academy Award-winning actor
Frank Rich	American History and Literature	Bachelor’s	New York Times columnist, author
Darren Aronofsky	Social Anthropology	Bachelor’s	Film director
Jeffrey Sachs	Economics	Bachelor’s, PhD	Economist, UN advisor
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie	African Studies	Master’s	Acclaimed novelist
Lloyd Blankfein	History	Bachelor’s	Former CEO of Goldman Sachs
Marjorie Liu	East Asian Studies	Bachelor’s	Comic book writer, novelist
Nicholas Kristof	Government	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
Jhumpa Lahiri	English	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer Prize-winning author
Terrence Malick	Philosophy	Bachelor’s	Film director
Arne Duncan	Sociology	Bachelor’s	U.S. Secretary of Education
Jim Cramer	Government	Bachelor’s	Financial television host
Linda Greenhouse	Government	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
Richard Olney	Fine Arts	Bachelor’s	Culinary writer
Janet Yellen	Economics	PhD	Federal Reserve Chair, Treasury Secretary
John Roberts	History	Bachelor’s	Chief Justice of the United States
Kai-Fu Lee	Computer Science	Bachelor’s	AI expert, venture capitalist
Esther Duflo	Economics	PhD	Nobel Prize-winning economist
Anthony Kennedy	Law	Law School	Supreme Court Justice
Buzz Aldrin	Mechanical Engineering	ScD	Astronaut, second man on the moon
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf	Public Administration	MPA	President of Liberia, Nobel Peace Prize winner
Robert Frost	Liberal Arts	Attended (did not graduate)	Pulitzer Prize-winning poet
Sylvia Plath	English	Bachelor’s	Poet, novelist
James Blake	Economics	Bachelor’s	Professional tennis player
Lawrence Summers	Economics	Bachelor’s	U.S. Treasury Secretary, Harvard President
Shaun Donovan	Engineering	Bachelor’s	U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
David Halberstam	Journalism	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, author
Dara Khosrowshahi	Engineering	Bachelor’s	CEO of Uber
Peter Benchley	English	Bachelor’s	Author of “Jaws”
Nicholas Negroponte	Architecture	Bachelor’s, Master’s	Founder of MIT Media Lab
Abdulla Yameen	Public Administration	Master’s	Former President of Maldives
Eric Garcetti	Political Science	Bachelor’s	Mayor of Los Angeles
Jim Koch	Business Administration	MBA	Founder of Boston Beer Company
Bonnie Raitt	Social Relations	Attended (did not graduate)	Grammy Award-winning musician
David Rockefeller	Economics	PhD	Banker, philanthropist
Timothy Geithner	Government, Asian Studies	Bachelor’s	U.S. Treasury Secretary
Ursula Burns	Mechanical Engineering	Master’s	First African American woman CEO of Fortune 500 company (Xerox)
Rivers Cuomo	English	Bachelor’s	Lead singer of Weezer
Caroline Kennedy	Law	Law School	U.S. Ambassador, author
Neil Rudenstine	English	Bachelor’s	President of Harvard University
Mazie Hirono	Psychology	Bachelor’s	U.S. Senator
William Randolph Hearst	Attended (expelled)	N/A	Newspaper publisher, politician
Tagg Romney	Economics	MBA	Businessman, political adviser
Robert Rubin	History	Bachelor’s	U.S. Treasury Secretary
Wallace Shawn	History	Bachelor’s	Actor, playwright
Eliot Spitzer	Government	Bachelor’s	Governor of New York
Kyra Sedgwick	Liberal Arts	Attended (did not graduate)	Emmy Award-winning actress
Timothy Wirth	Government	Bachelor’s	U.S. Senator, U.N. Foundation President
Jill Abramson	History and Literature	Bachelor’s	First female executive editor of The New York Times
Ketanji Brown Jackson	Government; Law	Bachelors; Law School	Ketanji Brown Jackson
Randall Kennedy	Law	Law School	Legal scholar, author on race relations
Rahul Gandhi	Development Studies	MPhil	Indian politician, former president of the Indian National Congress
Tatyana Ali	African-American Studies	Bachelor’s	Actress, singer (known for “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”)
Richard Barth	Social Studies	Bachelor’s	CEO of KIPP Foundation
Regina Spektor	Music	Bachelor’s	Singer-songwriter
David Fahrenthold	Government	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
Jasmine Wahi	History of Art and Architecture	Bachelor’s	Curator, social justice activist
Damien Chazelle	Visual and Environmental Studies	Bachelor’s	Oscar-winning film director (La La Land)
Julie Mehretu	Visual and Environmental Studies	Bachelor’s	MacArthur Fellowship-winning artist
John Updike	English	Bachelor’s	Pulitzer-prize winning author
Sophia Amoruso	Attended (did not graduate)	N/A	Founder of Nasty Gal, author of #GIRLBOSS
I.M. Pei	Design	Master’s	Award-winning architect

Harvard Graduates: Famous Alumni and Their Campus Home

Harvard University’s main campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. Today, over 7,100 undergraduates call the 5,076-acre campus home. There, they engage with rigorous academics, engaging extracurriculars, and exceptional networking opportunities.

Harvard has 13 schools within the university, including the:

• T.H. Chan School of Public Health 
• Harvard Business School 
• Harvard School of Dental Medicine 
• Harvard Divinity School 
• Harvard Kennedy School 
• Harvard Medical School 
• Harvard Graduate School of Education 
• Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 
• Harvard Graduate School of Design
• John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences 
• Harvard College
• Harvard Law School

Each Harvard University alumnus story was shaped by the time spent on Harvard’s campus: the challenging classes, the close-knit undergraduate community, and the dreams each alumnus had while they walked the grounds of the esteemed university.

Notable University of Harvard Alumni

Every class of Harvard graduates is a new group of potential celebrities, world leaders, and influencers. So, let’s run down of some of the most famous Harvard alumni to ever walk the campus:

1. Barack Obama

Barack Obama served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A Harvard Law School graduate, Obama became the first African American to hold the office. His presidency was marked by significant policy achievements, including the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as “Obamacare,” which expanded healthcare coverage to millions of Americans. Before his presidency, Obama was a community organizer, Illinois state senator, and US senator. His charismatic leadership and eloquent oratory skills earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009.

2. Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States, who is married to the 44th president, Barack Obama. A graduate of Harvard Law School, she has been a powerful advocate for healthy families, veterans, higher education, and international adolescent girls’ education. Her memoir, Becoming, became a bestseller, offering an intimate look at her life, including her years in the White House and her initiatives like the “Let’s Move!” campaign.

3. John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, is remembered for his charismatic leadership and the significant events of his presidency, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the establishment of the Peace Corps, and his famous call to put a man on the moon. A Harvard graduate with a degree in government, Kennedy left a lasting impact on the nation.

4. Al Gore

Al Gore served as the 45th Vice President of the United States under President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 2001. He is a Harvard graduate with a degree in government and went on to become a prominent environmental activist. Gore won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for his efforts to combat climate change, including his documentary An Inconvenient Truth, which raised awareness about global warming.

5. George W. Bush

George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, and he was the first president with an MBA degree. His presidency (2001-2009) was marked by the events of September 11, 2001, the War on Terror, and the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. Bush’s tenure also saw significant tax cuts, education reform, and efforts to address the financial crisis of 2008.

6. Mark Zuckerberg

Mark Zuckerberg is the co-founder and CEO of Facebook, one of the world’s largest social media platforms. A former Harvard student, Zuckerberg launched Facebook from his dorm room in 2004 as a social networking site for Harvard students. The platform quickly expanded to other universities and eventually to the public, revolutionizing how people connect and share information online.

7. Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving from 1993 until her death in 2020. A Harvard Law School alumna, she was a pioneering advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. Ginsburg co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union and argued several landmark cases before the Supreme Court, earning her a reputation as a legal trailblazer and cultural icon.

8. Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. A Harvard graduate in physics, Tyson has hosted several educational TV shows, including NOVA ScienceNow and Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey. His engaging style and passion for science have inspired many to explore and appreciate the wonders of the universe.

9. Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her versatility and depth in roles ranging from blockbuster films to independent dramas. A Harvard graduate with a degree in psychology, Portman balanced her studies with a successful acting career. She is known for her roles in Black Swan, Star Wars, and V for Vendetta, and she is highly respected for her intelligence, talent, and advocacy for various social and political causes.

10. Sheryl Sandberg

Sheryl Sandberg is the former Chief Operating Officer of Facebook and the author of the bestselling book Lean In, which encourages women to pursue their ambitions and challenges societal norms around gender roles. Sandberg earned both her undergraduate degree and MBA from Havard, and she has been a leading voice in technology and business, advocating for female empowerment in the workplace.

11. Robert F. Kennedy

Robert F. Kennedy, known as “Bobby,” was a prominent American politician and lawyer who served as the U.S. Attorney General and later as a US Senator. A Harvard graduate with a degree in government, Kennedy was a leading advocate for civil rights and social justice. He was assassinated in 1968 while campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination, leaving a lasting legacy as a champion for the underprivileged and oppressed.

12. Noam Chomsky

Noam Chomsky is a renowned linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, and social critic. A Harvard graduate, Chomsky is often called the “father of modern linguistics,” and he has made significant contributions to the study of language, philosophy, and cognitive science. Chomsky is also known for his outspoken criticism of U.S. foreign policy and advocacy for social justice and human rights.

13. Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein was a legendary composer, conductor, and music educator, best known for his work on the Broadway musical West Side Story. After earning his undergraduate degree from Harvard, Bernstein enjoyed a five-decade career and became one of the most influential figures in American music. His dynamic conducting style and dedication to music education inspired generations of musicians and music lovers.

14. T.S. Eliot

T.S. Eliot was a poet, playwright, and literary critic, considered one of the most important figures in modernist literature. Originally from England, Eliot came to America to study at Harvard. His notable works include “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock,” “The Waste Land,” and “Four Quartets.” Eliot’s innovative use of language and exploration of complex themes earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948.

15. Ben Bernanke

Ben Bernanke is an economist who served as the Chairman of the Federal Reserve from 2006 to 2014. A Harvard graduate with a degree in economics, Bernanke’s tenure at the Fed was marked by his response to the 2008 financial crisis, implementing unconventional monetary policies to stabilize the economy. His leadership during this critical period has been widely studied and debated by economists and policymakers.

16. Susan Wojcicki

Susan Wojcicki is the former CEO of YouTube and a prominent figure in the technology industry. A Harvard graduate with a degree in history and literature, Wojcicki played a key role in the early development of Google, including the acquisition of YouTube. Under her leadership, YouTube grew into one of the world’s largest video-sharing platforms, revolutionizing how content is created and consumed online.

17. Ratan Tata

Ratan Tata is an Indian industrialist and philanthropist who served as the chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of one of India’s largest and most respected conglomerates, the Tata Group. A Harvard Business School alumnus, Tata transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse with investments in various industries, including steel, automobiles, and hospitality. His leadership and commitment to social responsibility have made him a revered figure in the business world.

18. Ban Ki-moon

Ban Ki-moon is a South Korean diplomat who served as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations from 2007 to 2016. A Harvard Kennedy School graduate, Ban’s tenure at the UN focused on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and peacekeeping. His diplomatic efforts and advocacy for global cooperation have left a lasting impact on international relations.

19. Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, graduated from Harvard College in 1880. Known for his robust personality and progressive policies, Roosevelt transformed the presidency with his assertive approach to domestic and foreign policy. As a Harvard student, he was deeply engaged in academics and extracurricular activities, developing a lifelong interest in natural history. His presidency is marked by significant achievements, including the establishment of national parks, the construction of the Panama Canal, and Progressive Era legislation. Roosevelt’s legacy as a reformer and conservationist continues to influence American politics and environmental policies.

20. Michael Bloomberg

Michael Bloomberg, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and politician, earned his MBA from Harvard Business School. He is the founder and CEO of Bloomberg L.P., a global financial services and media company. Bloomberg served as the Mayor of New York City from 2002 to 2013, implementing significant public health and environmental policies. His philanthropy focuses on education, public health, and the arts, with substantial donations to various institutions, including his alma mater. Bloomberg’s influence extends beyond business and politics, as he continues to advocate for climate change awareness and gun control.

21. John Adams

John Adams, the second President of the United States, graduated from Harvard College in 1755. A leading figure in the American Revolution, Adams played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War. However, his presidency proved turbulent, with the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts and efforts to avoid war with France. Adams’ commitment to American independence and governance helped shape the early foundations of the United States. 

22. Natalie Merchant

Natalie Merchant, a singer-songwriter, attended Harvard University but did not graduate. She began her career as the lead vocalist for the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs before embarking on a successful solo career. Merchant’s music, characterized by her distinctive vocal quality and poetic lyrics, often explores themes of social justice and personal introspection. Her solo albums, including Tigerlily and Ophelia, have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Merchant is also known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes such as arts education and environmental conservation.

23. Pete Buttigieg

Pete Buttigieg, a politician and former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, graduated from Harvard University with a degree in History and Literature. He later attended Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. Buttigieg gained national attention during his 2020 presidential campaign, becoming the first openly gay major presidential candidate. Buttigieg’s intellectual background and policy-oriented approach have positioned him as a rising star in American politics, advocating for issues such as infrastructure, climate change, and economic equality.

24. Jeremy Lin

Jeremy Lin, a professional basketball player, graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Economics. Lin rose to fame with the New York Knicks during the 2011-2012 NBA season, a period known as “Linsanity,” due to his unexpectedly high level of performance. As one of the few Asian-American players in the NBA, Lin has been a trailblazer and an inspiration for many, becoming a role model both on and off the court. Lin continues to play professionally and is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and youth development.

25. Steve Ballmer

Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft, graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Applied Mathematics and Economics. During his time at Harvard, he was a manager for the football team and a contributor to the Harvard Advocate. Ballmer joined Microsoft in 1980 and played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, serving as CEO from 2000 to 2014. Under his leadership, Microsoft expanded its product range and global presence. Ballmer is also known for his philanthropy and ownership of the Los Angeles Clippers. His dynamic leadership style and business acumen have made him a significant figure in the tech industry.

26. Roger Kornberg

Roger Kornberg, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. He is renowned for his research on the molecular basis of eukaryotic transcription, which has significantly advanced our understanding of genetic regulation. Kornberg’s groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2006. His contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology have had a profound impact on scientific research and medicine building on the legacy of his father, Arthur Kornberg, who also won a Nobel Prize in Medicine.

27. Paul Samuelson

Paul Samuelson, a pioneering economist and Nobel Prize winner, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. Samuelson is often regarded as the father of modern economics, having made significant contributions to economic theory and policy. His textbook, Economics, became one of the most widely used economics texts in the world. Samuelson was the first American to win the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1970. His work laid the foundation for many areas of economic research and policy, influencing generations of economists and politicians.

28. James Rothman

James Rothman, a distinguished cell biologist, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. He is renowned for his groundbreaking discoveries in the field of vesicle trafficking, which is crucial for understanding how cells transport molecules. Rothman’s research revealed the complex processes by which vesicles, tiny sacs within cells, move and deliver their cargo to specific destinations. This work has vast implications for understanding diseases related to cellular transport mechanisms. In recognition of his pioneering contributions, Rothman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2013. His research continues to influence the fields of cell biology and medicine, providing insights into cellular processes and potential therapeutic targets.

29. Robert Merton

Robert Merton, an influential economist and Nobel laureate, completed his Ph.D. at Harvard University. Merton is best known for his work on the Black-Scholes-Merton model, which revolutionized the field of financial economics by providing a method for pricing options and other derivatives. His contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of risk management and financial markets. In 1997, Merton was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences. His academic career includes professorships at Harvard and MIT, where he has mentored numerous students and continued to innovate in financial theory. Merton’s work remains foundational in both academic research and practical applications in finance.

30. Michael Kremer

Michael Kremer, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, earned his Bachelor of Arts and Ph.D. from Harvard University. Kremer is renowned for his contributions to development economics, particularly through his work on randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of various interventions in alleviating poverty. His innovative approaches have impacted education, health, and agriculture policies in developing countries. In 2019, Kremer was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for his experimental approach to alleviating global poverty. His work continues to influence policymakers and development practitioners worldwide, advocating for evidence-based decision-making.

31. Saul Perlmutter

Saul Perlmutter, an astrophysicist and Nobel laureate, received his Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University. Perlmutter is best known for his leadership in the discovery of the accelerating expansion of the universe, a finding that led to the recognition of dark energy as a dominant force in the cosmos. This groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2011. Perlmutter’s research has had profound implications for cosmology, altering our understanding of the universe’s fate and composition. He continues to conduct influential research and mentor the next generation of physicists, contributing to the advancement of astrophysics.

32. Amartya Sen

Amartya Sen, a Nobel Prize-winning economist and philosopher, completed his Ph.D. at Harvard University. Sen’s work has significantly influenced welfare economics, social choice theory, and development economics. His groundbreaking research on poverty, inequality, and human capabilities has shaped global development policies and academic discourse. In 1998, Sen was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for his contributions to welfare economics. He has held prestigious academic positions at Harvard and other leading institutions, advocating for human rights, social justice, and economic development. Sen’s work continues to inspire policymakers and scholars worldwide.

33. William Faulkner

William Faulkner, an acclaimed writer and Nobel Prize laureate, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Faulkner is celebrated for his novels and short stories that explore the complexities of life in the American South. His innovative narrative techniques and deep psychological insights have made him a central figure in American literature. Faulkner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1949 for his powerful and artistically unique contributions. His works, including The Sound and the Fury and As I Lay Dying, remain influential, studied for their stylistic mastery and profound themes of identity, morality, and the  human experience.

34. Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison, a Nobel Prize-winning author, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Morrison’s novels, including Beloved, Song of Solomon, and The Bluest Eye, explore African American life through richly textured narratives and complex characters. Her work addresses complex themes of race, identity, and history, earning her the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993. Morrison’s contributions to literature and cultural discourse have had a lasting impact, and her legacy continues to inspire readers and writers around the world.

35. Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan, an iconic musician and Nobel Prize laureate, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Dylan’s influence on music and culture spans more than five decades, with his songs combining social and political issues, personal reflection, and poetic expression. His innovative use of language and genre has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. In 2016, Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his impactful contributions to songwriting. His work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in contemporary music and cultural history.

36. Kofi Annan

Kofi Annan, a Ghanaian diplomat and former Secretary-General of the United Nations, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Annan’s tenure as UN Secretary-General from 1997 to 2006 was marked by efforts to reform the organization and address global challenges such as poverty, human rights abuses, and conflict resolution. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001 for his work in fostering a better organized and more peaceful world. Annan’s leadership and advocacy for international cooperation and human rights have left a lasting legacy, influencing global policies and humanitarian efforts.

37. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female President of Liberia and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Sirleaf’s presidency, which lasted from 2006 to 2018, was marked by efforts to rebuild Liberia’s economy and infrastructure following years of civil war. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her work in promoting peace, democracy, and gender equality. Sirleaf’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing women’s rights and economic development in Africa, earning her international recognition as a champion of peace and good governance.

38. Doris Lessing

Doris Lessing, a Nobel Prize-winning author, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Lessing’s prolific literary career includes works such as The Golden Notebook and The Grass is Singing, which probes themes of feminism, social justice, and human psychology. Her unique narrative style and deep exploration of complex social issues earned her the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2007. Lessing’s contributions to literature have had a profound impact, challenging societal norms and inspiring readers to reflect on the human condition.

39. Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and education activist, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Yousafzai gained international recognition for her advocacy for girls’ education in Pakistan, surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012. Her bravery and determination have made her a global symbol of the fight for education and women’s rights. In 2014, she became the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Yousafzai continues to champion education and empowerment for girls through the Malala Fund, inspiring young people around the world to pursue education and fight for social justice.

40. Juan Manuel Santos

Juan Manuel Santos, a Colombian politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Santos served as President of Colombia from 2010 to 2018 and is best known for his efforts to end the Colombian conflict, a civil war that lasted over 50 years. His administration negotiated a historic peace agreement with the FARC guerrilla group, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016. Santos’s commitment to peace, democracy, and economic development has made a lasting impact on Colombia and serves as a model for conflict resolution worldwide. His education at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government played a crucial role in shaping his approach to governance and diplomacy.

41. Roger Kornberg

Roger Kornberg, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. Kornberg is renowned for his pioneering research on the molecular basis of eukaryotic transcription, which has significantly advanced our understanding of genetic regulation. His groundbreaking work revealed the mechanisms by which genetic information is transcribed from DNA to RNA in eukaryotic cells, a fundamental process in biology. This research earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2006. Kornberg’s contributions have had a profound impact on the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology, influencing both scientific research and medical advancements.

42. Edward Mills Purcell

Edward Mills Purcell, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, completed his Ph.D. at Harvard University. Purcell is best known for his discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in liquids, a breakthrough that has had far-reaching applications in chemistry, physics, and medicine. His work on NMR laid the foundation for the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a critical tool in medical diagnostics. Purcell was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1952 for his contributions to this field. Throughout his career, he continued to make significant contributions to physics, and he was a respected professor at Harvard.

43. Theodore W. Richards

Theodore W. Richards, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. Richards is celebrated for his precise determinations of atomic weights, which significantly advanced the field of chemistry. His meticulous work provided a deeper understanding of atomic structure and paved the way for future discoveries in chemical science. In 1914, Richards was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his achievements. His legacy endures through his contributions to chemical research and influence on generations of chemists.

44. Adam Riess

Adam Riess, an astrophysicist and Nobel laureate, completed his Ph.D. at Harvard University. Riess is renowned for his work on the accelerated expansion of the universe, a discovery that provided compelling evidence for the existence of dark energy. His research, conducted as part of the High-z Supernova Search Team, earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2011. Riess’s findings have had a profound impact on our understanding of cosmology, and he continues to be an influential figure in astrophysical research.

45. Frederick C. Robbins

Frederick C. Robbins, a Nobel Prize-winning virologist, earned his M.D. from Harvard Medical School. Robbins is best known for his work on the cultivation of the poliovirus in tissue culture, a breakthrough that was crucial for the development of the polio vaccine. This achievement earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1954. Robbins’s contributions have had a lasting impact on virology and public health, playing a key role in the fight against poliomyelitis. His work continues to inspire advancements in medical research and vaccine development.

46. W.E.B. Du Bois

W.E.B. Du Bois, the renowned sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, and co-founder of the NAACP, received his second bachelor’s degree from Harvard in 1890 and later became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from the university in 1895. At Harvard, Du Bois honed his research skills and developed his sociological approach to studying race relations in America. His doctoral dissertation, “The Suppression of the African Slave-Trade to the United States of America, 1638-1870,” became an influential work in the field. 

47. Helen Keller

Helen Keller, the famous author, political activist, and lecturer, became the first deafblind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree when she graduated from Radcliffe College (which later merged with Harvard) in 1904. Her time at Harvard/Radcliffe was a testament to her extraordinary determination and intellect. Keller studied a wide range of subjects, including English literature, Latin, Greek, German, and philosophy. Her academic achievements, accomplished with the help of her teacher and companion Anne Sullivan, challenged societal perceptions about the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. 

48. Mo Rocca

Born in Washington, D.C., in 1969, Maurice Alberto Rocca is a humorist, actor, and journalist who graduated from Harvard University in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in literature. He is a regular panelist on the radio quiz show Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! and got his start in television writing and producing children’s shows. At Havard, Rocca was the president of the school’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals, where he co-wrote and performed in four burlesques and co-wrote, and he also starred in Little Shop of Horrors opposite future Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

49. Conan O’Brien

Famous comedian Conan O’Brien graduated from Harvard magna cum laude in 1985. He is currently a TV host, writer, producer, and comedian who is best known for his late-night talk shows, especially Late Night with Conan O’Brien. While at Harvard University, O’Brien wrote for and was the president of The Harvard Lampoon, the campus humor magazine.

50. Matt Damon

Actor Matt Damon has been named one of Forbes’ most bankable stars. He studied theater and English at Harvard, but he dropped out (with just one semester to go) to pursue acting. Damon’s films, including Good Will Hunting, The Martian, and The Bourne Identity, have grossed almost $4 billion at the box office.

51. Bill Gates

William Henry Gates III is the co-founder and chairman of Microsoft, revolutionizing the late 20th century tech landscape. He is a business magnate, philanthropist, and investor. He attended Harvard University from 1973 to 1975 and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Law degree in 2007.

52. Fred Gwynne

Frederick Hubbard Gwynne was a famous actor who was praised for his roles in a couple of hit 1960s sitcoms, especially The Munsters, and films like My Cousin Vinny and Pet Sematary. Gwynne was also an avid painter, writer, and illustrator of several children’s books. He graduated from Harvard University in 1951. While at the school, he was a member of the a cappella group, the Harvard Krokodiloes.

53. Yo-Yo Ma

World-famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma graduated from Harvard University in 1976. He was a child prodigy who began performing at four and a half years old. He went to Harvard after dropping out of Columbia University and Juilliard. Yo-Yo Ma was also granted an honorary doctorate from Harvard in 1991.

54. Ashley Judd

American actress Ashley Judd, daughter of country music legend Naomi Judd, graduated from Harvard University in 2010, where she received her mid-career master’s degree in public administration. Judd is primarily known as an actress and goodwill ambassador.

55. Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is an actress best known for her roles in Parks and Recreation, The Office, and Angie Tribeca. She is a 1997 graduate of Harvard University, where she studied comparative religion. Jones participated in several student organizations during her time on campus, including the Hasty Pudding Theatricals, Harvard Opportunes, Harvard Radcliffe Dramatic Club, and the Black Students Association.

56. Stockard Channing

American actress Stockard Channing is instantly recognizable from her role as Rizzo in Grease, but she also appeared in films like Practical Magic and tv shows like The West Wing. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University in 1965 after studying history and literature at Harvard’s Radcliffe College.

57. Amy Brenneman

American actress Amy Brenneman earned her degree in comparative religion from Harvard in 1987. She is best known as Detective Janice Licalsi in the long-running hit television show NYPD Blue and as Judge Amy Gray in the show Judging Amy.

58. Greg Giraldo

Born on December 10, 1965, comedian Greg Giraldo graduated from Harvard Law School in 1990. Known as one of the funniest dark humor comedians and greatest American stand-up comics, Giraldo passed away in September 2010. He is remembered for his work on Comedy Central shows like Lewis Black’s Root of All Evil and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn.

59. Tommy Lee Jones

Famous American actor Tommy Lee Jones graduated cum laude in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. During his time as an upperclassman at Harvard, Jones was roommates with former U.S. vice president Al Gore. He was also a guard on the school’s undefeated 1968 football team who participated in the most famous football game in Ivy League history, a Havard vs. Yale game where Harvard came back from a 16-point deficit to win in the last few minutes. 

60. John Lithgow

American actor John Lithgow attended Harvard and graduated magna cum laude with an applied baccalaureate in 1967. Born in Rochester, New York, the actor studied English literature at Harvard and lived in Adams House as an undergrad. Later, he served on the university’s Board of Overseers. Lithgow credits his performance in Utopia, Limited at Harvard with influencing his decision to begin acting. After graduation, he went on to win awards for roles in Conclave, The Crown, Dexter, and 3rd Rock from the Sun

How to Become a Future Harvard Alumnus

If you have your sights set on attending Harvard University, you will need to do much more than earn top scores, rank high in your class, and earn a superior GPA. Harvard University is looking for students who are not only well-rounded but also leaders. 

The school aims to welcome students who show exemplary dedication and passion for the field in which they choose to study. You’ll need to be an excellent writer and interviewee, participate in and lead extracurricular activities, and serve your community. 

For the best chance at getting into Harvard University, you should start planning as early as possible during your high school career. And Empowerly can help! Our comprehensive college counseling services will help you build a strong application, including transcripts, essays, and test scores, that will stand out to top colleges like Harvard.

At Empowerly, our top-rated college counselors are proven to boost college admissions rates by 11x. In fact, 98% of our students have been accepted into Ivy League schools like Harvard University or top 25 schools. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources:

Looking for help getting into an Ivy League school? Check out Ivy League College Counselors: 10 Tips to Help You Find a Match

If you’re looking for other top schools, read our article, What Are The Best Universities & Colleges in New York

Getting ready for the SAT? Learn what score you should be aiming for in our guide to  Average SAT Scores by State for 2025: The Good, Bad, & Ugly