The Kennedy family and its friends founded Harvard's blank">Institute of Politics (IOP) to serve as a living memorial to President _John F. Kennedy shortly after his death. The Institute seeks to inspire Harvard undergraduates into careers in politics and public service, much as President Kennedy was inspired during his days as a student at Harvard. The IOP also brings together the academic world with the world of politics and public affairs. All of this activity occurs on a non-partisan basis with the sole aim of promoting public service.

The IOP is led by former congressman Jim Leach(R-IA), a full-time staff, an advisory committee of Harvard students, and an advisory board including Caroline Kennedy, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), US Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE), former Senators John Culver (D-IA) and Warren Rudman (R-NH), Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-IL), former White House Chief of Staff Kenneth Duberstein, former congressman Phil Sharp (D-IN), PBS correspondent Gwen Ifill, historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, New York Times executive Rick Berke, former advisor to President Kennedy Milton Gwirtzman, and Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson.

Among the programs offered by the IOP include internships, prominent and diverse Forum speakers, the Harvard Political Review, study groups led by visiting and resident Fellows, and conferences intended to provide opportunities for interaction with the people who shape politics and public policy. The IOP does not offer formal courses or degree-granting programs; instead, it provides avenues for practical experience and encourages students to examine critically and think creatively about politics and public issues.

In 2003, the IOP launched the National Campaign for Political and Civic Engagement, working collaboratively with other schools and organizations across the country to engage young people. The IOP also conducts research and surveys into the political views of America's young voters. In addition, the Institute offers conferences for new members of Congress and new mayors, and, after each Presidential election, brings together top campaign officials to analyze the race.

Notable alumni include Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson, Kentucky Treasurer of State Jonathan Miller, former Vice President Al Gore, author E.J. Dionne. Congressman Barney Frank served as a staff member of the IOP during the 1960s.

The Institute of Politics is housed within Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government and affiliated with the Kennedy Presidential Library. The three institutions work closely together.