Harvard appoints Kuwaiti Al-Zaabout as first MENA Regional Director of Alumni Board
In a historic milestone for the Middle East and North Africa region, Harvard University has appointed Nadia Al-Zaabout as the first Kuwaiti woman to serve as the MENA Regional Director of the Harvard Alumni Board of Directors. This landmark achievement underscores the growing global recognition of Arab women’s leadership and academic excellence.
The appointment represents a major step toward empowering Kuwaiti and Arab women to take on influential roles in leading international academic institutions, further highlighting the region’s advancing status in global education and leadership representation, reports Al-Jarida daily.
Al-Zaabout, who continues to serve as President of the Harvard Alumni Club in Kuwait, has been instrumental in revitalizing the club’s activities through innovative academic and cultural initiatives that foster collaboration between Harvard alumni and regional institutions.
Her efforts have contributed to a vibrant intellectual and professional exchange between Kuwait and the global academic community.
Al-Zaabout expressed her gratitude and sense of duty toward her new role.
“I am honored to receive this assignment from Harvard University, and I see it as both a responsibility and a privilege,” she said. “This appointment represents not only a personal achievement but also an achievement for every Kuwaiti and Arab woman who has proven that competence, commitment, and hard work can open doors at the world’s most prestigious institutions.”
She emphasized that representing the MENA region on Harvard’s Alumni Board requires serious efforts to strengthen ties between graduates and their communities, with the goal of advancing education and sustainable development.
“Empowering women begins with believing in their ability to lead and make an impact,” Al-Zaabout added. “Kuwaiti women today are active partners in shaping the future—locally and internationally. Through this role, I aim to support initiatives that bring Harvard graduates together, promote innovation, scientific research, and entrepreneurship, and create a positive impact across our communities.”
She concluded, saying, “Harvard has always inspired us to think globally and act responsibly. I hope this appointment encourages future generations in Kuwait and the region to pursue excellence, driven by ambition, knowledge, and teamwork.”
Al-Zaabout holds a bachelor’s degree from Kuwait University and three Master’s degrees in geology, business administration, and petroleum engineering from the University of Southern California (USC).
She is also a graduate of Harvard Business School, reflecting a distinguished career defined by leadership, innovation, and global engagement.
