Harvard University announced on Friday that Alan M. Garber, who took over as interim president in January, will continue to lead the prestigious institution until the end of the 2026-27 academic year. This decision brings a sense of stability to a campus that has recently experienced significant turmoil.
Dr. Garber assumed the role of interim president following the resignation of Claudine Gay earlier this year. Gay stepped down amidst controversy surrounding her testimony at a congressional hearing on antisemitism within the university and allegations of plagiarism in her academic work.
Penny Pritzker, a senior fellow of the Harvard Corporation, expressed in a campus-wide message the decision to remove the “interim” label from Dr. Garber’s title. This move was made to acknowledge his exceptional service to the university and to emphasize the need for active and engaged leadership during this period of transition.
Looking ahead, Harvard University plans to initiate a search for Dr. Garber’s successor in 2026. This will allow for a smooth transition of leadership and ensure the continued success and growth of the institution.
Dr. Alan M. Garber has a distinguished background in academia, having previously served as the Provost of Harvard University before stepping into the role of interim president. His experience and commitment to the university’s mission make him a fitting choice to lead Harvard during this critical time.
As Harvard looks towards the future, the university remains committed to upholding its reputation as a leading institution of higher education. The decision to retain Dr. Garber as president reflects a desire for continuity and strong leadership as Harvard navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.