Kannon K. Shanmugam, a highly respected appellate attorney and Harvard alumnus, has been appointed to the prestigious Harvard Corporation, the University’s main governing body.
The announcement was made on Thursday, marking an important step in Shanmugam’s distinguished career.
He will succeed Theodore V. Wells Jr., who is stepping down after 12 years of dedicated service.
Shanmugam’s Background and Contributions
Shanmugam is widely regarded as one of the nation’s leading appellate attorneys, with an impressive track record of legal accomplishments.
Over his career, he has argued 39 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and handled over 150 appeals across various state and federal courts.
He is currently a partner at the law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, where he also chairs the firm’s Supreme Court and Appellate Litigation Practice.
Shanmugam’s career has seen him hold various notable roles, including serving in the Office of the Solicitor General at the Department of Justice.
Beyond his legal work, Shanmugam has also contributed significantly to educational institutions.
He has held advisory and governance positions with several organizations, such as the Thurgood Marshall Academy and the University of Kansas Endowment.
This involvement reflects his deep commitment to education, academic values, and the advancement of young people’s futures.
A Strong Advocate for Academic Excellence
In their announcement, Harvard President Alan Garber and Senior Fellow Penny Pritzker praised Shanmugam’s intellectual rigor and commitment to academic freedom.
They emphasized his ability to work with diverse viewpoints and his strong work ethic, qualities that will be valuable to the Harvard Corporation.
Shanmugam’s devotion to Harvard is clear, as he expressed his gratitude for the opportunities the University has provided him throughout his life.
As a graduate of both Harvard College and Harvard Law School, Shanmugam attributes much of his success to the transformative education he received at the University.
His dedication to the institution is evident in his willingness to help address the challenges Harvard faces while maintaining its dedication to academic excellence.
A Storied Academic Journey
Shanmugam’s path to success began with his undergraduate years at Harvard College, where he graduated summa cum laude in 1993 with a concentration in classics.
He later studied at Oxford as a Marshall Scholar, earning a Master of Letters degree in classical languages and literature.
Shanmugam returned to Harvard Law School, where he earned his J.D. in 1998, graduating magna cum laude and serving as the executive editor of the Harvard Law Review.
After law school, Shanmugam clerked for Judge J. Michael Luttig of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit and for Justice Antonin Scalia of the U.S. Supreme Court.
His legal career has included stints at prominent firms and in the government, where he helped shape legal policy and practice at the highest levels.
Shanmugam’s Vision for Harvard
In his statement following his appointment, Shanmugam expressed both his pride and his responsibility in joining the Harvard Corporation.
He acknowledged the challenges the University faces but emphasized his belief in the importance of addressing issues constructively while staying true to Harvard’s foundational principles of academic excellence.
Shanmugam is deeply committed to supporting Harvard’s role as a leading institution, which has contributed significantly to both the academic world and society at large.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
As Shanmugam prepares to take on his new role on July 1, he steps into a position previously held by Theodore V. Wells Jr., whose tenure on the Corporation is widely regarded as impactful.
Garber and Pritzker praised Wells for his service and expressed confidence that Shanmugam will carry forward Wells’ legacy while bringing fresh insights to the board’s work.
The Harvard Corporation plays a critical role in overseeing the University’s academic, financial, and physical resources. As one of two governing bodies at Harvard, the Corporation ensures the University’s overall well-being.
Shanmugam’s appointment strengthens the Corporation’s leadership and helps set the stage for Harvard’s continued growth and success.
Kannon K. Shanmugam’s appointment to the Harvard Corporation is a significant milestone in his career and marks an exciting new chapter for the University.
With his extensive legal background, deep commitment to education, and passion for Harvard, Shanmugam is poised to contribute meaningfully to Harvard’s future.
As the University navigates its challenges and opportunities, Shanmugam’s leadership and perspective will be invaluable in shaping Harvard’s next steps.
