Dr. Miguel Cardona
Miguel A. Cardona most recently served as the 12th U.S. Secretary of Education under President Joe Biden. With over 27 years in education, he has championed equity and access, from teaching fourth grade to leading America’s education system. Dr. Cardona’s key initiatives include academic recovery post-pandemic, mental health support, global competitiveness, and college affordability and access.
Under his leadership, U.S. schools reopened successfully, $185 billion in student debt was forgiven, and student loan systems were reformed. His tenure saw record growth in student reading achievement for underperforming students, expanded apprenticeships for aspiring teachers, increased school mental health resources, and a national roadmap for reimagined college and career pathways.
Prior to becoming U.S. Secretary of Education, Cardona served as the Commissioner of Education in Connecticut, District Leader in CT, University Instructor, National Award-winning School Principal, and classroom teacher. Secretary Cardona's approach to leadership, at the local, state, federal, and international level, has been grounded in intentional collaboration and lifted by a bold vision for improvement from Pre-Kindergarten, through college, to adult learning. His work has sought collaboration from local leaders, Governors, Philanthropists, Entertainers and artists, Industry executives, and International Leaders.
A first-generation college graduate, Cardona’s journey from English learner to national leader exemplifies the power of public education. He holds multiple degrees from the University of Connecticut and Central Connecticut State University. Secretary Cardona and his wife Marissa, also an educator, are proud parents of two college-aged students.
"I'm excited about this opportunity to engage with the Harvard community to explore policy implementation and implementation from the local to the federal level. Given the current state of affairs, this is a great time to explore what it means to lead today and in the coming years."