A Thirty-Seven-Year GSD Journey: John A. Mann II MUP ’01

Starting at the GSD when he was 37 years old, surrounded by many students just out of undergrad, gave John A. Mann II MUP ’01 a unique viewpoint on higher education. That perspective has informed how he now supports the school.

John Mann with structure in background and blue sky John A. Mann II MUP ’01 has worked for the federal government for a total of 37 years, a number that matches the age he was when he began his studies at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Over that time, he worked for multiple federal agencies, most recently serving as a land use policy advisor for the United States Navy’s Chief of Naval Operations. That experience, along with his decision to attend the GSD as an older student, has given him a unique perspective on design education.

“I had long had a desire to get a master’s degree in urban planning,” said John, who grew up in Tucson, Arizona, and now lives in Washington, DC. “I was exploring different programs in the DC area and thought I would work full-time while going to school. Then, I found out about the GSD’s Design Discovery, somehow convinced my employer to pay for this six-week program, and got to experience a little taste of what life at the GSD is like. By the end of those six weeks, I said, ‘If I can get into Harvard, I’m going to quit my job and do it.’”

As a public servant in his late thirties, John knew giving up two years of income for a graduate degree was a major financial leap. But he calls his time at the GSD one of the greatest experiences of his life, one that rewarded him academically and with “extraordinary” connections to his classmates and professors.

After graduating and returning to federal employment, John prioritized giving back to the GSD both professionally and financially by serving on the GSD Alumni council for eight years—and committing to a recurring monthly gift to the school. His continuous support of GSD students over the years, unchanged by his upcoming retirement from the Navy and the pursuit of new projects, has impacted our community deeply.

John Mann with three Alumni Council members in front of yellow building

John Mann on the GSD campus with fellow Alumni Council members.

Giving in general was important to me because I understand the economic burden of going to the GSD, and donating on a monthly basis felt achievable to me. I had to take out student loans to do it, and I was fortunate to pay them back in short order. If my giving helps offset the cost of tuition and expenses for other students, that's worth it to me.

“There’s nothing like being able to leave a full-time job and go back to school,” John added. “All of us can help other students out there like me, lowering their financial burden and giving them this opportunity.”

For more information on supporting the GSD, please contact Courtney Ward, Managing Director of Development.

Photos: courtesy of John A. Mann II MUP ’01

Published February 2025