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CAMBRIDGE, MA – NOVEMBER 06: David Gergen co-facilitates a discussion with U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer at the Harvard University Institute of Politics John F. Kennedy School of Government John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum on November 6, 2015 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Paul Marotta/Getty Images
Nation & World
Public servant, reliable guide, link to congressional campaigns — and clam bake host
Former students and fellows at Harvard Kennedy School reflect on their experiences with David Gergen
His career was not a conventional journey in public service writ large.
David Gergen advised three Republican presidents (Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, and Ronald Reagan) as well as one Democrat (Bill Clinton). Gergen, who passed away on July 11 at the age of 83, was also a co-founder of the Center for Public Leadership (CPL) and an influential educator in public service at Harvard Kennedy School since the late 1990s.
David Gergen (right) with President Ronald Reagan and press secretary Larry Speakes in the Oval Office, 1983.
David Hume Kennerly/Getty Images
For approximately a quarter-century, Gergen welcomed to CPL hundreds of students and fellows inspired by a commitment to serve others while learning to lead with intention and integrity. Some shared their reflections with the Gazette, expressing the influence Gergen had on their careers and lives. Their remarks have been adapted for clarity and brevity.
May Samali, M.P.P. ’16,
Gleitsman Leadership Fellow 2014-2016, Cheng Fellow 2015-2016
The loss of David Gergen this week has evoked a flood of memories and immense gratitude. When I joined the Harvard Kennedy School as a Gleitsman Leadership Fellow over a decade ago, David welcomed us not just to the Kennedy School but into his world. He hosted students at his Cape Cod residence for annual clam bakes. He joined us at CPL events, eager to hear our thoughts. He made time. He created space. He made us feel acknowledged.
David’s political journey was exceptional: He acted as a trusted advisor to four U.S. presidents from both Republican and Democratic administrations. From the Nixon era through Clinton, he was a rare bridge in a divided political environment. A steady, calming presence in chaotic times. The man behind Reagan’s famous phrase, “Are you better off than you were four years ago?” Yet David never clung to authority or partisanship. He led with ethics, humility, and moral awareness.
However, his most significant legacy might be what he co-created after his political career: the Center for Public Leadership. Thousands of students have been part of CPL, realizing that leadership is not defined by charm or control, but by character, bravery, and service. Reflecting back, I understand I’m a more effective leader, and a better individual, because I knew David Gergen. Many of us are. Thank you, David. For your faith, your example, and your lifetime of dedication.
Graves Tompkins, M.P.A./M.B.A. ’08,
George Fellow 2008
I had the honor of being David’s pupil and then serving as his teaching assistant. David animated the classroom with his warm laughter, generous spirit, and grounded principles, sharing his remarkable political insight through his lived experiences while investing deeply in every student’s success. He highlighted the arts of communication and the power of persuasion in his teachings, inspiring everyone to aspire higher, discover their purpose, and create an impact.
Despite all he achieved, David was relatable, humble, and compassionate. He instilled decency, civility, humanity, and country over party in our political discourse, representing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s belief that “Everybody can be great … because anybody can serve … You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
David was a cherished friend, guide, and role model to me and many others, and his absence will be profoundly felt. However, his commitment to service and belief in the upcoming generation of leaders will continue through the Gergen Fellowship and the Center for Public Leadership, just as his remarkable life and legacy motivate all of us to contribute more to help others and promote the common good.
Shireen Santosham, M.P.A.-ID/M.B.A. ’09,
Zuckerman Fellow and George Fellow 2007-2009
Like many, I was fortunate to consider David Gergen a mentor. I assisted David in his class “Driving Forces in American Politics” during the pivotal 2008 election, as well as being one of many fellows at the Center for Public Leadership that he established. My fellowship and connection with David reshaped my career path and enhanced my understanding of what public service genuinely entails.
Absorbing his insights on Obama’s 2008 election during class — along with his forecasts on the subsequent backlash — seems incredibly prescient as I observe the polarized politics of today. But
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His grasp of history, recognizing that progress fluctuates yet ultimately advances, is a principle I deeply embraced.
David recognized that building relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds is essential for enacting change — whether it involves engaging with those on the other side, guiding a variety of students, or reconsidering one’s own beliefs. He interacted with everyone with a sense of dignity and grace that continues to resonate with me. I integrated these insights into my government work and corporate positions, hoping to replicate even a small portion of the influence David had on the world.
Fatima Sanford, M.P.A. ’15,
Zuckerman Fellow 2014-2015
Contemplating the significant effect David Gergen had on my life, particularly during my tenure as a Zuckerman Fellow at Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership, fills me with profound appreciation. David was not only a mentor but also a source of enlightenment and moral integrity. His direction throughout my fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School was pivotal, influencing my philosophy on leadership and public service. David’s steadfast dedication to principled leadership and his capacity to motivate those around him has left a lasting imprint on both my career and personal development. His legacy will continue to motivate forthcoming generations of leaders.
Seth Moulton, ’01, M.B.A./M.P.P. ’11
In 2013, Seth Moulton (standing) attended a panel discussion moderated by David Gergen.
File photo by Stephanie Mitchell/Harvard Staff Photographer
I would not have a position in Congress were it not for David, making me one of the numerous veterans he motivated to take action and seek change in our political landscape. He referred my name to Emily Cherniack, founder of New Politics, who encouraged me to participate in that initial, ambitious campaign in 2014. In many ways, he had more faith in me than I had in myself, and I am sincerely thankful for that. Despite the challenges of Washington, it is a genuine honor to serve our country once more.
It occurs to me that the two most significant mentors in my life were David and the late Rev. Professor Peter J. Gomes, former minister of the Memorial Church, both of whom are linked through the remarkable Anne Gergen, who brought me to David’s attention after I passionately discussed high-speed rail at one of Peter’s gatherings. Peter motivated me to enlist in the Marines, and David encouraged me to serve in Congress. I dearly miss both of them.
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