Walter M. Cabot

Walter M. Cabot was an investment executive who founded and served as the first president of Harvard Management Company, the organization responsible for managing Harvard University's endowment. He is best known for pioneering the modern endowment model by diversifying beyond traditional stocks and bonds into alternative investments including venture capital, private equity, real estate, and oil and gas. During his 16-year tenure from 1974 to 1990, Harvard's endowment grew from approximately $1.4 billion to over $5 billion. He passed away on June 2, 2026, at the age of 93.