<p>President Obama recently honored this year’s winners of the National Humanities Medal. The National Humanities Medal is the highest government honor for those “whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities, broadened our citizens' engagement with the humanities, or helped preserve and expand Americans' access to important resources in the humanities.”</p>
<p>Among the twelve winners, a quarter of them have ties with Princeton--William Bowen *58 a former President of Princeton, Natalie Zemon Davis, Professor Emeritus of History and Frank Deford ’61. </p>
<p>Awards</a> & Honors: National Humanities Medals | National Endowment for the Humanities</p>
<p>William Bowen *58: “Academic leader, for his contributions to the study of economics and his probing research on higher education in America. While his widely discussed publications have scrutinized the effects of policy, Dr. Bowen has used his leadership to put theories into practice and strive for new heights of academic excellence.”</p>
<p>Natalie Zemon Davis, Prof. Emeritus: “Historian, for her insights into the study of history and her exacting eloquence in bringing the past into focus. With vivid description and exhaustive research, her works allow us to experience life through our ancestors’ eyes and to truly engage with our history.”</p>
<p>Frank Deford ’61: “Sports writer, for transforming how we think about sports. A dedicated writer and storyteller, Mr. Deford has offered a consistent, compelling voice in print and on radio, reaching beyond scores and statistics to reveal the humanity woven into the games we love.”</p>