Harvard Gazette Welcomes New Leadership: Meet the Vice President and Secretary of the University Steering the Office of the Governing Boards

Harvard University has appointed Suzanne Glassburn as its new vice president and secretary. President Alan Garber shared the news on Thursday, highlighting her vast experience and respect in the academic community.

Garber praised Glassburn’s exceptional skills, stating, “Her leadership will enhance the vital work of both the Corporation and the Board of Overseers, especially during this critical time for Harvard and for higher education.”

Before joining Harvard, Glassburn spent 15 years at MIT. She was vice president and secretary of the Corporation and also worked as a legal counsel there. Her journey began in the legal field as a partner at the Boston law firm Nutter, McClennen & Fish, LLP.

Expressing her gratitude, Glassburn said, “I am excited to contribute to an institution known for its outstanding governance and leadership. I look forward to strengthening the partnership between administration and governance.”

In her role at Harvard, Glassburn will oversee the governing boards, which include the Corporation and the Board of Overseers. She will lead the Office of the Governing Boards, setting priorities and providing support to strengthen their efforts.

“It’s an honor to work alongside the dedicated members of the Corporation and Board of Overseers,” she noted. “I aim to help guide this esteemed institution as it continues to impact society positively.”

During her tenure at MIT, Glassburn managed numerous governance activities, liaised between senior administration and board members, and oversaw the Office of the Corporation. She was also a senior adviser to the MIT president, involved in crucial institutional events and federal relations.

Her experience in the legal realm at MIT’s Office of the General Counsel included partnerships on academic projects and governance policies. She played a significant role in establishing edX, a well-known online learning platform that has turned education into a global phenomenon.

At Nutter, she represented a range of clients, including public and private sectors, managing cases in areas like mergers and acquisitions and intellectual property licensing.

Glassburn takes over from Marc Goodheart, who has been in the position for nearly 30 years. He will continue to advise Harvard’s leadership during this transition.

Looking at the increase in online learning platforms and their influence on education, experts note that leaders like Glassburn will be crucial in navigating the future of higher education amid changing landscapes. A recent study showed that 70% of students prefer online learning options, emphasizing the need for seasoned professionals in educational governance.

Glassburn earned her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania and holds a degree in English from Vanderbilt University, bringing a unique blend of skills to her new position at Harvard. With her experience and vision, she is poised to make a significant impact at an institution known for shaping future leaders.

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