December 2025 Newsletter
Harvard College Hosts First Annual Veterans Day Observance
On a frigid Veterans Day afternoon, Harvard College, the Harvard Veterans Alumni Organization, and the Harvard Foundation welcomed students, alumni, faculty, and community members to Memorial Church for a Veterans Day Observance. The sanctuary, dedicated to the memories of fallen service members, provided a fitting setting for a ceremony providing reflection, honor, and gratitude. Opening remarks by Navy Veteran and Plummer Professor of Christian Morals & Pusey Minister, Rev. Matthew Ichihashi Potts, acknowledged Harvard’s longstanding tradition of service and set the tone for the commemorative program.
The program continued with remarks by Master Sergeant Ed Somuk, USMC (Ret.), who shared about his road to becoming an undergraduate at Harvard College. Next, Harvard historian Jill Lepore shared memories of her father, a Veteran of WWII, and how his experiences shaped her formative years. The keynote address was delivered by Congressman Seth Moulton, USMC. He shared the how his time in Memorial Church influenced his decision to join the Marines, and how his military service has shaped his political service.
Highlights of the ceremony included the introduction of the newly updated Medal of Honor plaque by Paul Mawn, who spoke about the extensive research and dedication behind ensuring Harvard’s Medal of Honor recipients are honored with accuracy and dignity, and a stunning rendition of America the Beautiful by Rev. Dr. Aric B. Flemming Jr. . The ceremony closed with a benediction, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of gratitude and a strengthened connection to Harvard’s veteran community.
HVAO Welcomes James Simon as Treasurer
We are thrilled to announce that James Simon, ALM '24, has joined the HVAO Board as our new Treasurer.
James brings exceptional financial expertise to this role as the Founder and President of Renew Wealth Management and a current appointee to the Department of Defense Investment Board as part of the Investment Advisory Committee, where he provides strategic investment direction for over $2.8 trillion in military pension and federal trust funds. As a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, and Chartered Financial Analyst Level 3 candidate with more than 18 years in wealth management, James has advised over $1.4 billion in client assets during his tenure at Charles Schwab and previously served as Director - Financial Planner for a private multi-family office firm assisting ultra-high net worth families with $30 million or more in assets. He brings unparalleled financial acumen to our organization.
As an Iraq War veteran with over 20 years of Army service, currently serving in an Army Reservist capacity at the White House Military Office as an Operations Officer, James deeply understands our community's unique needs.
Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, James now resides in Alexandria, Virginia, with his son, Grant. When not serving our veteran community, you might find him on the golf course, Latin dancing, or exploring one of the 60+ countries he's visited in his travels. James brings both his global perspective and deep commitment to service to our board.
New HVAO Chapters Forming in select Cities
The Harvard Veterans Alumni Organization is excited to announce the formation of new HVAO Chapters in select cities across the country. These local chapters will create new opportunities for veterans and military-affiliated alumni to connect, network, serve their communities, and strengthen the bonds that unite our membership.
As we continue expanding, we invite members who are interested in helping form, lead, or support new chapters to join us in building this next stage of HVAO’s growth. Whether you have prior leadership experience or simply a passion for supporting fellow veterans, your involvement can make a meaningful impact.
If you’d like to take part in shaping a chapter in your area—or help launch one in a city not yet covered—please sign up using the link below.
https://qualtricsxmfrqf7c4bh.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7PQiNmbJD029pBA
Together, we look forward to extending the reach and community of HVAO nationwide.
Happy Holidays & Joyous New Year
Happy holidays to the Harvard Veterans Alumni Community! As this year draws to a close, I hope each of you finds time for rest, reflection, and connection with the people and traditions that bring you joy. Your service, both in uniform and in the broader Harvard community, continues to inspire gratitude and admiration.
May this season remind you of the strength of shared purpose and the bonds formed through leadership, resilience, and commitment. The support you offer one another, and the example you set for current students and fellow alumni, enriches the entire Harvard community in meaningful and lasting ways.
Wishing you all a joyous and fulfilling New Year ahead. May 2026 bring renewed opportunities, personal triumphs, and moments of celebration. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do—here’s to a bright and hopeful year to come!
Winter greenery with Scrabble pieces spelling Holiday Season.
