Outstanding service and dedication are the hallmarks of Harvard staff, and these traits were celebrated on Thursday, as exuberant family, friends, and colleagues packed Sanders Theatre to celebrate 71 Harvard Heroes. Nominated and selected by their peers from a record-breaking number of submissions — more than 1,000 — these staff members were introduced by the heads of their departments, divisions, or Schools, and their achievements were lauded in moving and often personal remarks by President Alan M. Garber to cheers and applause.
Processing into the theatre as Janelle Monae’s cover of David Bowie’s “Heroes” played, the honorees were enthusiastically welcomed by Executive Vice President Meredith Weenick for “their exemplary efforts in support of our mission.” After a video introduction, Manuel Cuevas-Trisán, vice president for human resources, announced the “true superstars.”
“I hope you’ll be as inspired as I am by the stories of their selfless service,” said Cuevas-Trisán, before introducing Garber.
“Fulfilling our mission of research, teaching, and learning would not be possible without your efforts and the efforts of your colleagues across the University,” said Garber, acknowledging the University’s difficult year. “That you have continued to press on during a very challenging time is a testament to your dedication to our community.”
