Renowned Economist and Alumna Karin Kimbrough to Speak at Commencement

Dr. Karin Kimbrough ’86, chief economist at LinkedIn, will be the keynote speaker at Northfield Mount Hermon’s 143rd commencement ceremony on May 24.

Kimbrough has had a distinguished career as a leader in the fields of finance, tech, and banking. At LinkedIn, where she’s worked since 2020, she leads a team devoted to surfacing thought leadership on the world of work. She also serves on the boards of directors of the National Bureau of Economic Research, SIEPR and the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. 

She previously served as assistant treasurer for Google and as head of macroeconomic policy at Bank of America. Kimbrough has also worked at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in the Markets Group and has been an economist at Morgan Stanley in London and New York. 

“It's an honor to speak to this year's graduating class,” Kimbrough said. “I know the world today can feel exciting, limitless, and even intimidating to new graduates, and I hope to inspire this class to realize how much they can shape their future with the values instilled by NMH.”

During her time at the school, Kimbrough played lacrosse and was an editor of the student newspaper The Bridge. After graduating from NMH, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University, a master’s degree from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Oxford. 

In 2024, Kimbrough spoke about her career path, the labor market, and the world of work as a guest on “Head, Heart, and Hand,” NMH’s alumni podcast. 

“In working with senior class speakers, our students were resolute that they wanted a speaker who honors our school’s mission to live with humanity and purpose,” said Head of School Brian Hargrove. “They also wanted someone who understands deeply the life-changing NMH education.

“Throughout her career, Karin has leaned into living with her head, heart, and hands as she established herself as a leading economist who understands the power of embracing technological innovation while holding tightly to human-centered strategies,” Hargrove continued. “Karin credits NMH with changing her life in profound ways, and, I know, will connect in remarkable ways to the Class of 2026 and their families.”

Northfield Mount Hermon's 143rd Commencement, on My 24, will be live streamed for those who can't attend in person. Visit our commencement page to watch the event and for more information.