From the President...March 2026

 

Dear Harvard Club of Dallas Community,

Asethis we usher in the vibrant days of spring, I find myself deeply grateful for the remarkable energy, engagement, and camaraderie that define our Harvard community in North Texas.
 

First and foremost, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our MidWinter Dinner featuring Fernando de León, AB ’01. Hearing Fernando reflect on his journey—from his upbringing on the border, to his formative years at Harvard, to building Leon Capital Group into a $10 billion diversified powerhouse —was both inspiring and thought-provoking. The lively discussions and connections formed that night exemplify the very best of our Harvard spirit, fostering fellowship and lifelong learning. Special thanks to Fernando for enabling such a stellar event—your impact continues to elevate our community.
 

Looking ahead, I am delighted to highlight several upcoming programs that promise to bring together the intellectual curiosity, cultural enrichment, and deep insights that our members value so highly.

First and foremost, I want to draw your attention to what promises to be one of the most unique and memorable experiences of the season. On Sunday, April 19, from 7:00–9:00 PM, we will host One Night Only! Special Performance by Grammy® Nominated Artists Allison Charney & Ben Loeb, AB '89. This intimate in-person concert features an extraordinary evening of song, classical music, and engaging conversation performed by acclaimed artists. Ben Loeb, our proud Harvard College alumnus (AB '89), is a Grammy-nominated conductor, pianist, arranger, and educator whose talents have graced stages worldwide. Paired with Allison Charney, a magnificent soprano also from the Harvard College class of ‘89, the duo will deliver a captivating, exclusive performance that's not to be missed—truly a rare cultural gem tailored for our community. Beyond the artistry, this event directly supports the Harvard Club of Dallas Community Service Summer Fellowship, funding meaningful summer public-service opportunities in Dallas for Harvard undergraduates. A dessert reception will follow, offering a perfect chance to connect with fellow alumni in a relaxed setting. As seating is limited, I encourage you to register early. Sponsor tickets are also available for those who wish to help support the fellowship program.

We also invite you to join us on Monday, May 4, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Tour, Luncheon, and Economic Update. This exclusive program offers a behind-the-scenes tour of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas facilities at 2200 N Pearl St, followed by lunch and an economic briefing from Senior Business Economist Laila Assanie. Attendees will gain valuable insight into regional and national economic trends, as well as the broader forces shaping today’s dynamic economic landscape.
 

On Wednesday, April 15, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, don't miss the Alternative Investing Panel, co-hosted with the Harvard Business School Club of Dallas (HBSCD). This in-person discussion will feature Harvard MBA alumni panelists exploring key aspects of alternative investments, including venture capital, private equity, hedge funds, and more. The conversation will focus on practical perspectives for accredited individual investors—covering topics like capital allocation, liquidity considerations, risk management, and opportunities in this evolving space. In this moment, when some spaces in alternative investing are being examined, this is a very timely conversation for our membership.

Together, these programs reflect the breadth of what makes the Harvard Club of Dallas so special—thoughtful dialogue, cultural engagement, and opportunities to connect with fellow alumni across disciplines and interests. Your continued participation is what sustains and strengthens our vibrant Harvard network in North Texas.

As always, I welcome your ideas for future programs and ways to become more involved. We will be screening for new officers and directors in the months to come and reaching out for volunteers to help with selected events. Our annual meeting promises to be a very special one, currently planned for early June.
 

Thank you for your enthusiasm, your engagement, and your commitment to the Harvard community in North Texas. I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming events.
 

With warm regards,

Shikha Sethi, AB 1993
President, Harvard Club of Dallas