Javier Jimenez ALM ‘23 is a senior executive and U.S. Air Force veteran whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, innovation, and service. At USAA, he leads initiatives in product development and community impact. A Harvard Extension School graduate with a master’s degree in Global Development Practice, he is dedicated to advancing sustainable development across institutions and communities.
Jimenez serves on the Harvard Extension Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he works to expand engagement and representation for alumni worldwide, and on the United Soldiers and Sailors of America Board of Directors, where he advocates for legislation that improves the lives of military families and veterans. Grounded in his military service and guided by a mission of unity, Javier continues to champion leadership that bridges divides and builds trust.
We spoke with Javier about what service means to him, the impact of his ongoing contributions, and how he hopes to inspire others to carry that spirit forward.
Question: What does receiving the Col. Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award mean to you, and how does it reflect your journey as a leader and veteran?
Answer: Receiving the Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award is both an honor and a moment of reflection. I’ve always admired Roosevelt’s courage, integrity, and devotion to service — values that have guided my own path. This recognition comes at a time when true leadership is more vital than ever. In a world increasingly divided by politics and ideology, leadership must unite, not divide. It’s about courage, empathy, and choosing what’s right over what’s convenient. From my service in the Air Force to my work in policy and community development, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about power — it’s about lifting others, building trust, and helping people find common ground.
Q: How has earning your Harvard Extension School degree shaped your life, both in your career and beyond?
A: My experience at Harvard Extension School was transformative. Earning a master’s degree in Global Development Practice deepened my understanding of how information, policy, and human-centered design come together to drive meaningful change. It sharpened my strategic thinking and broadened my worldview, shaping how I lead with purpose and understanding. Beyond the professional impact, Harvard reinforced my belief in lifelong learning and global citizenship. It wasn’t just an academic experience — it was a community that celebrated resilience, diversity, and the shared pursuit of making the world a better place.
Q: How has your perspective on serving others changed over time, from your military experience to your work within the Harvard community?
A: My perspective on service has evolved from one of duty to one of stewardship. In the military, service meant answering the call — protecting others and standing firm in challenging situations. As I transitioned into civilian life, it became about empowering others and building systems that create lasting impact. Within the Harvard community, that idea took on even deeper meaning. As co-founder of the Global Development Practice Student Society and now as a member of the Harvard Extension Alumni Association Board, I’ve come to see service as a shared journey — uplifting others, amplifying diverse voices, and ensuring that every student and alumnus feels valued, supported, and connected.
Q: What motivates you to stay connected to Harvard through the HEAA Board, and how do you hope your efforts will inspire or support future generations?
A: I stay connected to Harvard out of both gratitude and purpose. Serving on the Harvard Extension Alumni Association Board gives me the opportunity to give back to the institution that helped shape my leadership and worldview. I’m driven by a commitment to representation and shared purpose — ensuring that every HES student and alumnus can find their voice, their place, and their power within the broader Harvard community. Through my work on the Board, I want to expand opportunities for engagement, mentorship, and recognition. My hope is that by sharing my own journey — from military service to Harvard graduate to civic leader — I can inspire others to pursue their goals with conviction and to give back in ways that strengthen this incredible community.
Q: If you could share one piece of wisdom or gratitude from your journey so far, what would it be — and who or what has shaped that perspective most deeply?
A: One lesson I’ve learned is that perseverance guided by purpose changes everything. My military service taught me discipline and courage. Harvard nurtured my curiosity and reflection. And my family — especially my children — taught me empathy and grace. Together, these experiences shaped my understanding that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about growth, humility, and lifting others along the way. I’m deeply grateful to the mentors, colleagues, organizations, and communities who believed in me and shared my vision of service.
Thank you, Javier, for your service and contributions to the HEAA community!
