The Harvard Kennedy School is mourning the sudden death of Setti D. Warren, Director of its Institute of Politics (IOP) and former Mayor of Newton, Massachusetts, describing him as a 'visionary and tireless leader' whose passing is a profound loss for both Harvard and the wider public service community.
The Harvard Crimson reported that Warren, aged 55, was found unresponsive at his home in Newton, the city he once led as mayor. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Police said there were no signs of foul play. Harvard officials confirmed that his death was unexpected, adding that more details about memorial plans will be announced soon.
In an official announcement, the Harvard Kennedy School hailed Warren's lifelong commitment to civic leadership and education, saying his impact on students and colleagues would 'reverberate for generations to come'.
A Trailblazing Political Career
Setti Warren's life was defined by service and leadership. In 2009, he was elected Mayor of Newton, becoming the first popularly elected African-American mayor in the history of Massachusetts when he took office the following year.
During his two terms, he championed infrastructure improvements, strengthened public education and pursued sustainable development initiatives. Colleagues often described him as pragmatic, empathetic and deeply committed to community welfare.
Before his mayoral career, Warren worked in the White House under President Bill Clinton and later served in Senator John Kerry's office. He also held the post of Regional Director for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in New England, where he oversaw regional emergency management operations.
In 2017, Warren launched a campaign for Governor of Massachusetts, positioning himself as a progressive voice focused on economic fairness and civic inclusion. However, he withdrew from the race the following year, citing financial constraints.
Leadership at Harvard's Institute of Politics
After leaving public office, Warren joined the Harvard Kennedy School, where he quickly became a respected voice within the academic community.
Initially appointed Executive Director of the Shorenstein Centre on Media, Politics and Public Policy, he was later named Director of the Institute of Politics in 2023.
Under his leadership, the IOP expanded its engagement with students, introducing programmes on civic participation, climate policy and ethical leadership. Colleagues said he had a unique ability to bridge divides and inspire others to take part in meaningful public service.
Former US Secretary of State and Senator John Kerry paid tribute to Warren, saying he possessed 'a rare ability that brings people together, defies partisan labels, and contributes to a stronger social fabric'.
A Mentor and Advocate for Public Service
At Harvard, Warren was known not only for his policy acumen but also for his personal warmth and generosity as a mentor. He regularly met with students to discuss careers in government and community leadership, urging them to see public service as a moral calling rather than a profession.
Harvard officials said his passing leaves a 'deep and lasting void' in the Kennedy School community, where his leadership helped revitalise the Institute's mission to prepare the next generation of civic leaders.
I’m saddened to hear about Setti Warren. Massachusetts lost a light today.
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) November 2, 2025
Setti was a true public servant. I’m thinking of him and his family. pic.twitter.com/aZOqaNVzmy
I am heartbroken to learn of the sudden transition of my dear friend and former Kerry colleague, Setti Warren. There will be plenty of time to remember him as a proud Democrat, dedicated public servant, and convener, but for now I just want to remember the decent, kind, and good... pic.twitter.com/9OlQ1hJg7O
— Ayanna Pressley (@AyannaPressley) November 2, 2025
Setti Warren was a dear friend, a devoted father and husband, and an extraordinary public servant. He strove to make the burdens others carried a little lighter and life’s sharp edges a little softer. We are better for his service and his example.
— Joe Kennedy III (@joekennedy) November 2, 2025
Lauren and I send our love and… https://t.co/Wf6o13iwiu
Tributes from Political and Academic Leaders
Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller led tributes, describing Warren as 'a conscientious and deliberate leader who served residents in all 13 villages of Newton and worked tirelessly across divides'. She added that he 'believed deeply in education, reduced the city's carbon footprint, and kept Newton's finances strong'.
Massachusetts leaders including Senator Elizabeth Warren, Representative Ayanna Pressley, Representative Katherine Clark and Representative Jake Auchincloss also expressed condolences, praising his dedication to equality, justice and public service.
Across social media, Harvard students, alumni and civic leaders shared heartfelt tributes, remembering him as both a mentor and a friend.
Many described his leadership style as empathetic, inclusive and profoundly human, qualities that made him a role model for those entering public life.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Setti D. Warren is survived by his wife, Tassy, and their two children, Abigail and John. His death has left an irreplaceable void within both Harvard and the community he served so passionately.
Though his time was cut tragically short, his vision of civic duty grounded in compassion, integrity and hope continues to inspire. As one Harvard colleague reflected, 'Setti never stopped believing in the power of public service to make life better for others. That is how he will be remembered.'
