Henna Karna Selected as Senior Fellow in Harvard University’s 2026 ALI Cohort
Celebrating Achievement: Henna Karna Joins Harvard ALI 2026 Cohort
In an inspiring highlight for the tech community, Henna Karna, a luminary in technology and innovation, has been selected as a senior fellow in Harvard University’s prestigious Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI) for the 2026 cohort. This announcement underscores the university’s commitment to fostering exceptional leaders who dedicate their skills and knowledge toward addressing the pressing challenges of our society.
A New Chapter at Harvard
As part of the 18th ALI cohort, Karna joins a diverse group of accomplished leaders embarking on a year-long journey at Harvard. Their mission: to develop innovative strategies and solutions that tackle some of the most urgent issues facing our world today. According to the Harvard Gazette, this cohort is uniquely positioned to share their varied experiences and perspectives to catalyze meaningful change.
Expertise in Technology and Leadership
Henna Karna brings a wealth of experience to the ALI, specializing in data analytics and artificial intelligence. With leadership roles at renowned tech companies such as Google, AXA XL, and AIG, Karna has a proven track record of building and transforming billion-dollar businesses. Her expertise in leveraging advanced technologies—including machine learning, natural language processing, and genetic algorithms—sets a robust foundation for her contributions during the fellowship.
Karna’s accomplishments extend beyond her technical prowess. She has also taken on the role of mentor and board member across various sectors, including public and private organizations such as Creative Destruction Lab and Hamilton Insurance. Her collaborative approach and commitment to excellence have made her a respected figure in the tech community.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
One of Karna’s most notable attributes is her advocacy for elevating under-represented communities. She strongly believes in a people-first approach to technology, particularly in promoting economic diversity, neurodiversity, and the integration of returning parents into the workforce. This vision aligns seamlessly with ALI’s mission to empower individuals who are catalysts for social impact.
A Global Perspective
The 2026 ALI cohort is not only diverse in expertise, but it is also globally representative. Out of its members, 19 were born outside the United States, and collectively, they bring experiences from 23 states and 45 countries. This wealth of perspectives enriches the peer-to-peer learning environment, further strengthening the cohort’s ability to devise multi-faceted approaches to societal challenges.
A Legacy of Leadership
Founded in 2009, ALI has built a reputation for attracting extraordinary leaders ready to redirect their talents toward public service and impactful missions. The 2026 cohort exemplifies this legacy, with members poised to become catalysts for long-lasting social change.
Conclusion
Henna Karna’s selection as a senior fellow at Harvard’s ALI is a celebration of not just her impressive achievements, but also a reaffirmation of the value of diverse voices in leadership roles. As she embarks on this new chapter, there is a collective anticipation that her contributions will not only influence her peers but will also resonate throughout the broader community, inspiring others to engage in meaningful action and advocacy.
Congratulations, Henna Karna! Your journey is an inspiration to many, reflecting the power of technology as a tool for social good.