Top 30 Harvard University Notable Alumni (2025)

What happens when brilliance meets the right environment? Harvard has been that environment for centuries, breeding global leaders, disruptors, thinkers, and doers. Let’s explore the legendary Harvard alumni across law, politics, tech, business, medicine, and the arts, and more importantly, what students like you can learn from their stories.

Here is the list of top famous and notable Harvard University alumni that one should know about:

Notable Achievements: 44th President of the United States; First Black president of the Harvard Law Review in 1990
Class: 1991
Course Studied: Juris Doctor (JD), Harvard Law School
Famous Quote: “Harvard gave me a platform. I had to figure out what I wanted to say on it.”

Barack Obama’s time at Harvard marked a turning point in his journey. Becoming the first Black president of the Harvard Law Review was not only a personal victory but also a symbolic breakthrough in an elite academic space. He used this position to champion equality, social justice, and unity. After Harvard, he built a political career grounded in purpose and service. His leadership style balanced integrity with calmness under pressure. Obama’s life is an example of how education can amplify a vision when paired with commitment.

Notable Achievements: Co-founder and CEO of Meta (formerly Facebook); created Facebook from his Harvard dorm room in 2004, transforming global communication
Class: 2006 (dropped out to focus on Facebook)
Course Studied: Computer Science and Psychology
Famous Quote: “The question I ask myself almost every day is, ‘Am I doing the most important thing I could be doing?’”

Mark Zuckerberg entered Harvard with a passion for building software. In 2004, he launched Facebook as a small project to connect Harvard students. The platform spread to other universities, then to the world, changing how people share and communicate. Though he left Harvard to focus on the company, his journey shows how an academic environment can spark groundbreaking ideas. Today, Meta connects billions of people globally across multiple platforms.

Notable Achievements: Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court (1993–2020); trailblazer for gender equality and women’s rights in U.S. law
Class: 1958 (transferred to Columbia Law School)
Course Studied: Law (Harvard Law School, 1956–1958)
Famous Quote: “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

In 1956, Ruth Bader Ginsburg was one of only nine women in a Harvard Law School Class 500 students. She excelled academically despite facing open bias in a male-dominated environment. Her determination and intellect shaped her career as a leading voice for equality. As a Supreme Court Justice, she challenged laws and precedents that discriminated based on gender. 

Notable Achievements: 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations (2007–2016); advanced global efforts in climate action, gender equality, and peacekeeping
Class: 1984
Course Studied: Master of Public Administration, Harvard Kennedy School
Famous Quote: “Saving our planet, lifting people out of poverty, advancing economic growth… these are one and the same fight.”

Ban Ki-Moon’s decade at the helm of the UN was defined by quiet but firm diplomacy. He worked to build consensus among nations on pressing global issues, from climate change to humanitarian crises. His Harvard Kennedy School education equipped him with a deep understanding of policy and global governance. Ban’s career shows that effective leadership blends empathy, patience, and strategic vision. His work has left a lasting impact on international cooperation and sustainable development.

Notable Achievements: Co-founder of Microsoft; global philanthropist through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; revolutionized personal computing
Class: 1975 (left Harvard College before graduation)
Course Studied: Computer Science and Mathematics, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “It’s fine to celebrate success, but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.”

Bill Gates joined Harvard in 1973 with a strong passion for technology and problem-solving. Two years later, he left to co-found Microsoft, laying the foundation for the personal computing revolution. His journey didn’t stop with tech; through his foundation, he has invested billions to combat global health challenges and improve education worldwide. Gates proves that success can evolve into a broader mission over time. His career is a blueprint for turning innovation into lasting social impact.

Notable Achievements: Former Chief Operating Officer of Meta (Facebook); author of Lean In; advocate for women’s leadership and workplace equality
Class: Bachelor’s -1991 and MBA -1995
Course Studied: Bachelor’s in Economics (summa cum laude), Master of Business Administration (MBA, with honours), Harvard University
Famous Quote: “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence.”

A double Harvard graduate, Sandberg is an icon of female leadership in tech. Her book Lean In sparked a global movement around women’s leadership. She climbed corporate ladders at the World Bank, Google, and Facebook, all while advocating for work-life balance and inclusive workspaces. She believes that creating inclusive environments helps unlock the full potential of teams and organisations.

Notable Achievements: Renowned surgeon, bestselling author, public health researcher, and advisor to global health systems
Class: Harvard Medical School, 1995; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 1999
Course Studied: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)
Famous Quote: “Better is possible. It does not take a genius. It takes diligence. It takes moral clarity. It takes ingenuity. And above all, it takes a willingness to try.”

Dr. Gawande blends surgical precision with literary brilliance. His books (Being Mortal, Checklist Manifesto) have transformed how the world sees healthcare, especially in aging, palliative care, and error prevention. He also advises governments and healthcare systems on improving public health worldwide. Gawande’s work bridges medicine, ethics, and policy, inspiring change beyond the operating room.

Notable Achievements: Oscar-winning actress, activist for animal rights, feminism, and environmental causes
Class: Harvard University, 2003
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Famous Quote: “I think you can do anything you want if you put your mind to it.”

Portman juggled Hollywood stardom and a Harvard degree, graduating in 2003 while continuing her acting career. Her studies in psychology informed her performances, while her activism (animal rights, feminism, climate change) shows her commitment to global issues beyond the camera. Her activism reminds students that fame carries responsibility to drive positive change. Portman’s example encourages pursuing knowledge while staying true to your passions.

Notable Achievements: Expanded Tata Group into a global business powerhouse; renowned for philanthropy and ethical leadership
Class: Cornell University, Bachelor’s in Architecture, 1962; Harvard Business School, Advanced Management Program, 1975
Course Studied: Architecture (Cornell University); Advanced Management Program (Harvard Business School)
Famous Quote: “Leadership is legacy: It’s what you leave behind that counts.”

Ratan Tata isn’t just an industrialist, but he’s an institution in himself. Known for values-first capitalism, he expanded Tata into global markets while maintaining its philanthropic soul. At HBS, he sharpened his leadership lens, but it was his humility and ethical grounding that set him apart. His commitment to innovation and social responsibility continues to inspire business leaders worldwide.

Notable Achievements: Co-inventor of CRISPR-Cas9; awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Class: 1994, Postdoctoral Research, Harvard Medical School
Course Studied: Molecular Biology / Biochemistry (Postdoctoral Research)
Famous Quote: “Science is about curiosity, but with great power comes great responsibility.”

Doudna helped develop CRISPR-Cas9, a revolutionary gene-editing tool. Her journey through Harvard and UC Berkeley redefined medical research. For her work, she earned the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, paving the way for genetic cures once thought impossible. Her discovery has opened doors for new treatments in genetic disorders and cancer. Doudna continues to advocate for the responsible use of gene-editing technology worldwide.

Notable Achievements: 35th President of the United States; led the country during the Cuban Missile Crisis and championed the space race.
Class: 1940
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.”

John F.Kennedy graduated from Harvard College in 1940 with a degree in International Affairs. His time at Harvard helped him learn about global politics, which guided his presidency. His leadership during important events, like the Cuban Missile Crisis, and his ideas for the U.S.space program show how his education influenced him. His life shows that education can prepare someone for leadership in the world.

Notable Achievements: 32nd President of the United States; led the country through the Great Depression and World War II.
Class: 1903
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in History, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”

Franklin D.Roosevelt graduated from Harvard College in 1903 with a degree in History. His education at Harvard helped him understand government and economics, which were important for his leadership during tough times. Roosevelt's presidency included major actions and changes like the New Deal, reflecting the skills he gained at Harvard. His legacy shows how a good education can support strong leadership.

Notable Achievements: 45th Vice President of the United States; environmental activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate for efforts on climate change.
Class: 1969
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in Government, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “The climate crisis is not a political issue, it is a moral and spiritual challenge to all of humanity.”

Al Gore graduated from Harvard College in 1969 with a degree in Government. His studies helped him understand political systems, which was important for his work in public service. Gore’s efforts on climate change show how knowledge from Harvard can help address global issues.

Notable Achievements: United States Senator from Texas; influential figure in U.S. politics and law.
Class: 1992
Course Studied: Juris Doctor, Harvard Law School
Famous Quote: “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.”

Ted Cruz earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1992. While at Harvard, he built strong legal skills that shaped his career in politics. His work in the Senate shows how his Harvard education helped him in government.

Notable Achievements: World-renowned cellist and cultural ambassador.
Class: 1976
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in Music, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks.”

Yo-Yo Ma graduated from Harvard College in 1976 with a degree in music. His education at Harvard, along with his early music training, helped him develop the skills needed for his performances. Ma uses his music to connect people, showing how an artist can have a global impact.

Notable Achievements: Academy Award-winning actor known for films like The Fugitive and No Country for Old Men.
Class: 1969
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in English, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “The movies I like to make are the ones that challenge the audience a little bit.”

Tommy Lee Jones graduated from Harvard College in 1969 with a degree in English. His education helped him improve his understanding of literature, which he used in his acting career. Jones’s work shows how a solid education can support creativity in the arts.

Notable Achievements: Emmy-winning television host, comedian, and writer, best known for Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Conan on TBS.
Class: 1985
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in History and Literature, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.”

Conan O’Brien graduated from Harvard College in 1985, where he developed his comedy writing skills. His time at Harvard shaped his humor and storytelling, which helped him succeed in television comedy.

Notable Achievements: Academy Award-winning actress for Mighty Aphrodite; activist for human rights and global causes.
Class: 1990
Course Studied: Bachelor of Arts in History, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “The world needs art, and art needs courage.”

Mira Sorvino graduated from Harvard College in 1990, where she studied history while acting. Her education helped her improve her research skills, which she uses in her acting. She also raises awareness on human trafficking and humanitarian issues, showing how education and fame can lead to positive change.

Notable Achievements: Academy Award-winning actor and screenwriter; co-writer of Good Will Hunting.
Class: 1988 (attended Harvard College, left before graduating)
Course Studied: English, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “You’ve got to work your ass off to make it, and never give up.”

Matt Damon attended Harvard College to study English but left in 1992 to act. While at Harvard, he co-wrote the film Good Will Hunting, which won him an Academy Award. His story shows how talent and education can lead to success in the arts.

Notable Achievements: Renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator; director of the Hayden Planetarium.
Class: 1980 (Harvard College, Bachelor’s degree in Physics)
Course Studied: Physics, Harvard College
Famous Quote: “For me, I am driven by two main philosophies: know more today about the world than I knew yesterday and lessen the suffering of others. You’d be surprised how far that gets you.”

Neil deGrasse Tyson earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Harvard College in 1980. He continued his studies in astrophysics and has worked to share science with the public through books and shows. His career shows how combining education with communication can inspire curiosity and learning around the world.

Getting into Harvard isn't about luck. It’s about direction, discipline, and deliberate choices. Whether you're eyeing Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, or Harvard Medical School, your journey starts with the right guidance. 

Yocket Premium offers profile evaluations, SOP reviews, test prep strategies, and one-on-one counselling to help you stand out in a sea of applications. If you're serious about being the next name on this list of famous Harvard alumni, don't wait; start preparing with purpose today!