Henry Chu named curator of Nieman Foundation for Journalism

Campus & Community

Henry Chu named curator of Nieman Foundation for Journalism

Prize-winning veteran foreign correspondent, editor aims to focus on challenges facing industry, including AI, press freedom, polarization

July 29, 2026 4 min read

Distinguished journalist Henry Chu has been named curator of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism, the University announced today.

“I am delighted that Henry has agreed to serve as the Nieman Foundation for Journalism’s next curator,” said University Provost John F. Manning. “His deep commitment to his craft and to mentoring journalists exemplifies the foundation’s mission of promoting and elevating the standards of journalism worldwide.”

Chu ’90 was named curator following an extensive search process, during which the University solicited feedback from Nieman staff and alumni, the wider Harvard community, and leading figures in the news industry, including John Harwood, chair of the Nieman Foundation’s advisory board.

“Henry Chu brings an ideal set of skills and experiences to his role as the next curator of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism,” said Harwood, a former White House correspondent for CNN and chief Washington correspondent for CNBC. “As a Harvard graduate and former Nieman Fellow himself, he has deep knowledge of the University and can speak with authority about the foundation and the immense challenges journalism faces at this moment.”

Chu is a longtime foreign correspondent and editor who has reported from more than 30 countries on six continents, primarily for the Los Angeles Times. He will begin his new role on Aug. 3.

“I am thrilled and honored to be appointed curator of the Nieman Foundation,” Chu said. “Journalism is more important than ever but is also facing grave challenges. I’m grateful for Harvard’s commitment to Nieman and look forward to working with the campus community, Nieman Fellows and alumni, and news industry leaders to help journalism and journalists thrive.”

Chu said he…