Mission

The Office of the University Marshal provides coordination and support for members of the Harvard community who wish to invite heads of state and other high level international and American officials and dignitaries to visit our campus. The Marshal’s staff also arranges specialized programs for foreign visitors who want to meet with Harvard faculty and/or administrators to learn about academics and/or University operations.

Members of the Harvard community who wish to invite such notables to campus are asked to familiarize themselves with the Guidelines for Harvard Invitations to Foreign Heads of State and Government, Cabinet Ministers, and High American Officials.

In addition, our office arranges the programs of visitors who wish to consult with academic and administrative experts in their field. The office also makes arrangements to send delegates to colleges and universities around the United States and the world to represent Harvard at inaugurations, anniversary celebrations, and other major events.

The Marshal's Office is also a resource for information about Harvard and general protocol issues, including proper use of academic regalia, the correct way to address a dignitary, or appropriate gifts for international visitors. You can view our current gift inventory, available for purchase by members of the Harvard community, in the Gifts section.