Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, a respected figure in philanthropy and global advancement, will deliver the keynote address at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) Class Day ceremony on May 20, 2025. As President of The Rockefeller Foundation, Shah leverages decades of experience tackling pressing global challenges, including public health crises, climate change, and economic disparity.
The event will take place at the Baker Athletic Complex in New York City. SIPA Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo emphasized that Shah’s visionary leadership aligns with the school’s mission to cultivate future policymakers capable of navigating an uncertain and rapidly changing world. She noted that his work embodies bold and transformative solutions, offering the perfect inspiration for graduates stepping into global roles.
Released in 2023, Shah’s book Big Bets: How Large-Scale Change Really Happens showcases his dedication to driving transformation through data-driven strategies, collaborative efforts across sectors, and innovative technology. His distinguished career includes leadership roles at the US Department of Agriculture and as administrator of USAID. He also served on the Defense Policy Board, advising the Department of Defense on strategic matters.
Trained as a medical doctor, Shah led transformative initiatives like Feed the Future and Power Africa. His coordination of humanitarian responses with the US military in regions like Haiti and Afghanistan, and his instrumental role in combating Ebola outbreaks in West Africa, highlight his capacity for swift, large-scale intervention.
Since 2017, under Shah’s leadership, The Rockefeller Foundation has focused on expanding economic opportunities within the US, scaling renewable energy access, and fortifying global health systems. Notably, the foundation played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, improving test availability and supporting response efforts both domestically and internationally.
A Michigan native, Shah holds degrees from the University of Michigan, the Wharton School, and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. His contributions have earned him prestigious honors, including the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award and the U.S. Global Leadership Award.
