David Battat will become the president of the Harvard Alumni Association on July 1, according to a May 18 announcement. Battat, a graduate from the class of 1991, is known for his work in healthcare, leadership instruction, and service as a first responder.
The appointment matters to many in the Harvard community because it highlights ongoing efforts to connect alumni with each other and with the university. Outgoing HAA President Will Makris said, “David brings thoughtful, steady leadership to the HAA. He’s someone who listens carefully, asks questions, and invites a wide range of voices into the conversation. Over many years of service to Harvard, he’s shown a deep commitment to bringing people together, and I know he’ll help our alumni community stay engaged with one another and the University.”
Battat described his undergraduate years at Harvard as “an extraordinary period of discovery and intellectual exploration,” shaped by professors and classmates who encouraged him to explore opportunities at the university. His career has included clerking for then-U.S. District Court Judge Sonia Sotomayor before moving into criminal defense law and later leading a medical device company focused on cardiovascular care and oncology. As CEO, he established re-entry programs at manufacturing facilities for people finishing prison sentences.
Battat has volunteered in several roles within Harvard organizations over time. He served on advisory boards such as that of the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs and co-chaired an undergraduate admissions alumni interviewing committee. He also co-founded the Harvard Alumni Disaster Preparedness and Response Shared Interest Group after working as a first responder during September 11 events in New York City.
Sarah Karmon, executive director of HAA said: “David’s many years of dedicated volunteer service to Harvard, along with his thoughtful alumni outreach and community-building efforts, have prepared him well for this role. We look forward to working alongside him while we continue to engage, support, and bring together volunteers and alumni around the world.”
Battat will welcome new graduates from Harvard College’s Class of 2026 into the alumni community during College Class Day celebrations on May 27.
