Mercer Times

Princeton professors Rachael DeLue and Peter Singer have been honored with the University's prestigious Howard T. Behrman Award for Distinguished Achievement in the Humanities.

Rachael DeLue, the Christopher Binyon Sarofim '86 Professor in American Art, was described by a colleague as "one of the great humanists in our University community" who advocates forcefully for the importance of the humanities at Princeton. Another colleague emphasized the centrality of humanities at Princeton and praised DeLue's impactful presence in the classroom and her dedication to mentoring graduate students.

DeLue's work focuses on the history of knowledge in Europe and North America, specifically exploring the intersections between art and science. She is known for her innovative approach to teaching, which includes immersive experiences such as museum visits and field trips to places of historical significance. DeLue's contributions extend beyond Princeton, as she is actively involved in the broader art and humanities communities.

Peter Singer, the Ira W. DeCamp Professor of Bioethics, was recognized for his global impact and practical approach to ethics. A colleague highlighted Singer's engaged philosophy and his influential course, "Practical Ethics," which has left a lasting impression on thousands of undergraduates. Singer's commitment to mentoring students through the Human Values Forum further demonstrates his dedication to fostering meaningful discussions on ethics and human values.

Singer's prolific writing career spans over 50 books, with notable works such as "Animal Liberation" and "The Life You Can Save" addressing pressing ethical issues related to animal rights and global poverty. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Berggruen Prize for Philosophy and Culture.

Both DeLue and Singer's outstanding achievements in the humanities have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by their well-deserved recognition with the Behrman Award. Their commitment to scholarship, teaching, and advocacy serves as a testament to the importance of humanities in academia and society.