Ruth J. Simmons to receive Radcliffe Medal on Radcliffe Day

Harvard Radcliffe Institute will award the Radcliffe Medal to Ruth J. Simmons on Radcliffe Day, May 29, recognizing her leadership in higher education. The ceremony will include a testimonial by James McBride, a video tribute by Michelle Obama, a conversation with Drew Gilpin Faust, and the formal presentation by Radcliffe Dean Tomiko Brown-Nagin.

Harvard Radcliffe Institute will award the Radcliffe Medal to Ruth J. Simmons on Radcliffe Day, May 29. Simmons is a three-time university president and a longstanding leader in higher education. The institute states the medal recognizes her work advancing the ideals of colleges and universities and calling them to reckon honestly with their failures. The Radcliffe Day program will include remarks and tributes from prominent figures. Key details: - Harvard Radcliffe Institute will present the Radcliffe Medal to Ruth J. Simmons on May 29. - Simmons has served as president of three universities and is recognized for transformative leadership and commitment to education. - The Radcliffe Day program will feature a testimonial by author James McBride, a video tribute by former first lady Michelle Obama, and a keynote conversation between Simmons and Harvard President Emerita Drew Gilpin Faust, followed by the award presentation by Radcliffe Dean Tomiko Brown-Nagin. - The Radcliffe Medal is awarded annually; it was first given to Lena Horne in 1987. Recent honorees include Ophelia Dahl, Jodie Foster, Melinda French Gates, Dolores Huerta, Sherrilyn Ifill, and Sonia Sotomayor. Summary: The Radcliffe Medal recognizes Simmons's long career and her emphasis on the value of community, educational opportunity, and openness to difference and debate. The formal presentation is scheduled for May 29 as part of Radcliffe Day, and the institute has outlined the program participants and tributes for the event.