Harvard Commencement Speaker Embroiled in Controversy Over Admission and Privilege
Jiang Yurong, a Chinese student, made history as Harvard's first Chinese female commencement speaker in 2023. Her graduation speech, which emphasized global interconnectedness, was delivered while wearing traditional Chinese elements with her academic regalia. However, her achievement was soon marred by controversies surrounding her admission to Harvard, with allegations that she gained entry through connections, particularly through the Green Development Foundation, where her father has ties. The foundation had previously posted about helping recommend her to Harvard Kennedy School, though these posts were later removed.
3 June 2025
The controversy sparked intense public discussion about educational fairness and privilege in China, with questions arising about the role of connections and social capital in elite education access. The involvement of her father's position at the China Green Foundation raised concerns about potential favoritism. The incident occurred during a period of tense US-China relations, and her graduation speech calling for unity despite conflicts received mixed reactions. It highlighted the complex position of Chinese students in American universities amid geopolitical tensions.
Public reaction to Jiang Yurong's speech and subsequent controversy showed mixed sentiment, with some praising her for representing Chinese students on a global stage, while others questioned her background and how she got into Harvard. Some social media users defended her achievements and courage to speak up, while others remained skeptical and critical of her background story. The controversy led to discussions about the role of connections and privilege in both Chinese and international education systems.
Jiang Yurong publicly denied having any overseas green cards or citizenship and explained her family background, noting she was raised by her mother after her parents' divorce. She defended her academic achievements, stating she entered schools through regular channels and examinations. However, the controversy persisted, with the Green Development Foundation being found to have been previously warned by authorities for mishandling charitable donations, including improperly allocating 500,000 yuan in management fees.
The incident demonstrated the power of social media in shaping public opinion and led to broader discussions about verification of facts versus online speculation. It showed how personal stories can become focal points for larger societal debates. The controversy also raised questions about international student recruitment and representation, highlighting the challenges universities face in maintaining both diversity and merit-based admissions.
The timeline of the controversy began on May 30, 2023, when Jiang Yurong delivered her graduation speech, initially receiving praise for promoting diversity and internationalization. Shortly after, controversy erupted, with questions arising about her admission process, family background, and her father's connection to the Green Development Foundation. Jiang made her first public response on social media on June 2, 2023, defending her right to speak in public spaces and emphasizing that Chinese students should actively participate in public discourse.
The controversy has sparked broader discussions about privilege, international education, and representation of Chinese students abroad. Jiang has stated she won't respond further to these allegations, and the Green Development Foundation has removed all references to her from their public accounts. The incident has become a symbol of broader debates about privilege and opportunity in Chinese society, reflecting changing attitudes among Chinese youth toward Western education and success stories, with many being more skeptical of such narratives compared to previous generations.
