Alumnae Circles is an HBS-enabled, alumnae-owned program designed to build and foster genuine relationships among HBS alumnae*.
A Circle is typically a diverse group of 6-10 women who get together in-person and talk about life on a regular basis. It provides them with a strong support network and the opportunity to share, support, and inspire one another – personally and professionally – without competition or the need to impress. Members are asked to have an open mind and commit to participating in their Circle for a full year. This commitment strengthens the group’s relationships and enhances the sense of support within the Circle.
*While the program is in support of alumnae (women), it is open to all HBS alumni. Please see our policy on non-discrimination for more details.
Member Expectations
CommitmentWe cannot overstate the importance of commitment. We ask that you make every effort to attend group gatherings and commit to participate in Circles for a full 12-month period to allow time to foster trust and personal bonds. We know that everyone is incredibly busy and you might occasionally have to miss a meeting, but that commitment truly is the magic that makes Circles work.
If you anticipate needing to miss a number of Circles meetings throughout the year, we would suggest holding off on joining until your schedule allows for consistent attendance. While, of course, life happens and members must miss meetings from time to time, the Circle dynamic can be negatively affected by members who don’t make their best efforts to show up.
Community Values
All members are required to abide by the School's Community Values.
Meeting Structure
Groups meet monthly, usually in one of the members’ homes, to talk about their lives in an atmosphere of intimacy and trust. Meeting structure and topics of discussion vary greatly from group to group, but they can include any issues facing us these days as women, such as:- Work/Life Balance
- Relationships
- Children
- Aging Parents
- Community Involvement
- Health
- Professional Challenges or Opportunities
- Self-Care
- Goals and Aspirations
