Princeton University President Christopher L. Eisgruber was awarded the Gold Honor Medal by the National Institute of Social Sciences on December 9. The medal is given to individuals recognized for making significant contributions to society.
The National Institute cited Eisgruber’s leadership in supporting research and liberal arts education, as well as his advocacy for free speech and academic inquiry. The organization also noted his efforts to increase access for lower-income and first-generation college students at Princeton and across higher education institutions in the United States.
Frederick Larsen, board president of the Institute, said during the awards ceremony in New York City: “a courageous public voice in the debate over the importance and independence of the university in society.” He continued, “He advocates a model which embodies fairness, integrity and rigorous pursuit of the truth, without yielding to internal or external pressure or the fashions of the day. He understands higher education in America is a tremendously valuable asset to society overall, and with such prominence comes a great responsibility to fulfill that promise.”
After receiving the award, Eisgruber stated: “I am grateful to the Institute for this honor and, more importantly, for its commitment to scholarship that deepens understanding of human society and enhances our civic and cultural lives.”
The National Institute of Social Sciences has awarded its Gold Honor Medal since 1913 to individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service to society. Previous recipients include U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, scientists, academics, authors, philanthropists, business leaders, and journalists. In 2025, Nobel Prize-winning labor economist Claudia Goldin and psychologist Alison Gopnik from UC Berkeley were also honored alongside Eisgruber.
Eisgruber’s recent book “Terms of Respect: How Colleges Get Free Speech Right” addresses issues around higher education and defends free speech on college campuses. Since becoming Princeton’s president in 2013, he has worked to expand opportunities for first-generation students as well as those from community college or military backgrounds.
Eisgruber also serves as co-chair of the American Talent Initiative steering committee and sits on the board of directors for the Association of American Universities. His previous honors include both the United States Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
