Harvard President Urges Class of '26 to Value Effort Amidst AI Advancements

Harvard University President Alan Garber addressed the Class of 2026 on May 27, 2026, emphasizing that “effort still matters” in the era of artificial intelligence. Garber urged graduates to resist “push-button omniscience,” highlighting the enduring value of diligent work.

Echoing this sentiment, Phi Beta Kappa speakers Larry Bacow and Meghan O'Rourke also encouraged Harvard graduates to cultivate character. They stressed that the world requires more than just intellect, underscoring the importance of personal integrity and resilience alongside academic achievement.