BOSTON—Harvard Business School (HBS) today announced that the Honorable W. Mitt Romney (MBA 1974/JD 1975) will be the featured alumni speaker at the School’s 2026 Class Day celebration. 

Class Day is a longstanding HBS tradition that precedes Harvard University’s Commencement and brings together graduating students, their families, alumni, faculty, and staff. The event, organized by a committee of second-year MBA students, celebrates the achievements and community of the graduating class and features remarks from student leaders, faculty award recipients, and a distinguished alumni speaker. 

Romney recently concluded his term as US senator from Utah (2019–2025) and has built a distinguished career spanning business, government, and public service. He is the cofounder of Bain Capital, former governor of Massachusetts (2003–2007), and leader of the successful turnaround of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games. 

“Mitt Romney’s career reflects a deep commitment to leadership, service, and principled decision-making,” said Srikant Datar, Dean of Harvard Business School. “His willingness to take on complex challenges across sectors and his focus on values-driven leadership make him an inspiring choice for the Class of 2026.” 

A Leadership Journey Shaped by Experience

Romney has often described his career as one shaped by unexpected opportunities rather than a single defined path. “I have bounced in ways I would have never predicted.” he said. 

That willingness to step into unfamiliar roles proved pivotal at several moments in his career. He has spoken about leaving the private sector to lead the Salt Lake City Olympic Games as a turning point, noting that it required putting aside financial considerations in favor of broader impact. 

Romney has also emphasized the importance of disciplined thinking and decision-making. “I began a process of writing down every day the evidence that was presented,” he said of a major decision during his Senate tenure, underscoring his methodical approach to leadership. 

Lessons for the MBA Class of 2026

Throughout his career, Romney has stressed the importance of focusing on the task at hand and developing excellence through execution. 

“The key to being successful is not to think about the promotion or the next job, but to do your present job well,” he noted, advice that has guided his approach across sectors. 

He has also highlighted the importance of leadership grounded in listening and collaboration. “An effective leader is someone who surrounds himself or herself with brilliant people, listens to them, and then defines a course,” he remarked. 

Romney has further encouraged leaders to stay grounded in their values and maintain perspective over time. “As time has gone on, I’ve learned to pay less and less attention to what others think, and more attention to the whisperings of my own conscience,” he added. 

He has also spoken about the importance of balance, noting that creating space for family and personal priorities has been essential to sustaining a long and demanding career. 

A Return to HBS

Romney has long credited Harvard Business School as a formative influence in his development as a leader. During his time at HBS, he honed his ability to analyze complex problems, communicate effectively, and collaborate with peers—skills that would shape his leadership in both business and government. 

As the Class Day Speaker, Romney will return to campus to share reflections with the MBA Class of 2026 as they prepare to embark on their own careers. 

The 2026 Class Day celebration will take place on Baker Lawn on the HBS campus in Boston and will include remarks from student speakers, presentation of faculty teaching awards, and Romney’s keynote address. 

The event marks a milestone for graduating students and offers an opportunity to reflect on their time at HBS while looking ahead to the future. 

For more details on the HBS Class Day and Harvard University Commencement exercises, please visit HBS Commencement 2026.