Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, will be joining Harvard University as a visiting fellow. The announcement was made by the Harvard Kennedy School on Monday.
Ardern, who served as New Zealand’s Prime Minister from 2017 to 2020, gained international attention for her compassionate and inclusive leadership style. She was praised for her response to the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, in which she displayed empathy and solidarity with the Muslim community.
During her time at Harvard, Ardern will be working with the university’s Center for Public Leadership, which aims to develop and support leaders who can create positive change in the world. She will be involved in a range of activities, including speaking events, seminars, and workshops.
More About Jacinda Ardern
According to the Center’s director, “Jacinda Ardern is a remarkable leader who has shown that it is possible to be both effective and compassionate in government. We are thrilled to have her join us and share her insights with our community.”
Ardern herself expressed excitement at the opportunity to work with Harvard. In a statement, she said, “I am honored to be joining the Harvard community and look forward to engaging with students and faculty. I believe that leadership can make a real difference in people’s lives, and I am excited to explore this further with the Center for Public Leadership.”
Ardern’s appointment at Harvard follows her recent appointment as a member of the World Health Organization’s Global Preparedness Monitoring Board, which aims to prevent future pandemics.
Since leaving office, Ardern has remained active in politics and advocacy, speaking out on issues such as climate change and women’s rights. She has also become a mother, giving birth to her first child in 2018 while serving as Prime Minister.
Ardern’s appointment at Harvard is expected to further cement her reputation as a global leader and advocate for progressive values. With her unique perspective and experience, she is sure to make a valuable contribution to the university’s community and the world at large.
