Mercer Times

Princeton University held its 110th Alumni Day on February 22, recognizing notable alumni Elena Kagan and David Card for their contributions to society. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan, a Princeton graduate of 1981, received the Woodrow Wilson Award, which honors undergraduate alumni for service and humanity. Nobel laureate David Card, who completed his Ph.D. in economics at Princeton in 1983, was awarded the James Madison Medal for his significant impact on labor economics.

During the event at Richardson Auditorium, over 1,400 attendees including alumni, faculty, staff, students, and guests participated in the celebrations. The day included various activities such as student awards presentations and a Service of Remembrance memorial ceremony.

Louise Sams presented Justice Kagan with the Woodrow Wilson Award for her distinguished career in law and public service. Before joining the Supreme Court in 2010, Kagan served as U.S. solicitor general and dean of Harvard Law School. Dean Michael Gordin praised her as "a champion for justice and democracy." In a conversation with President Christopher L. Eisgruber, Kagan emphasized the importance of listening to differing opinions to reduce societal polarization.

David Card was honored with the James Madison Medal by Louise Sams for his pioneering work in labor economics using natural experiments. Dean Rodney Priestley highlighted Card's research on immigration and labor market dynamics. Card shared insights from his studies during an Alumni Day talk titled “The Princeton School of Labor Economics,” crediting Princeton’s Industrial Relations Section for its influence on his career.

The event also recognized outstanding students with awards like the Pyne Prize and Jacobus Fellowship. President Eisgruber commended these students for their talent and dedication.

Alumni Day concluded with a luncheon at Jadwin Gymnasium featuring updates from university leaders and performances by student groups.