Poet laureate to lead alumni at Harvard Commencement
U.S. poet laureate Tracy K. Smith ’94 will serve as chief marshal of the alumni at Harvard’s 368th Commencement on May 30. “It’s a privilege to take part in this tradition,” she said. Smith said the honor is especially meaningful to her because she was elected to serve by her classmates, “accomplished and dedicated people who are making positive change in the world through their energy and commitment. “I am eager to join with my fellow alumni as we celebrate the graduates’ impact on Harvard and the many ways Harvard has readied them for bright futures,” she added. The 25th reunion class has selected the chief marshal from among its ranks since 1899, and many prominent people have filled the position over the decades. In recent years, they have included playwright Emily Mann ’74; higher education leader Mark D. Gearan ’78; City Year co-founder Alan Khazei ’83; former Secretary of Education Arne Duncan ’86; NASA astronaut...