nikole Hannah-Jones to Receive George Washington Carver Medal at Simpson College
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Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and educator Nikole Hannah-Jones will visit Simpson College on Thursday, January 29, to receive the George Washington Carver Medal for the 2025-2026 academic year. The award recognizes individuals whose achievements embody the legacy of George Washington Carver – a commitment to curiosity,courage,service,and humanity.
Hannah-Jones is best known as the creator of the groundbreaking 1619 Project, a long-form journalism initiative that reframes the history of the United States through the lens of slavery. She currently holds the Knight Chair in Race and Journalism at Howard University and is the founder of the Center for Journalism & Democracy.
About the George washington Carver Medal
The George Washington Carver Medal at Simpson College is a prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate extraordinary contributions aligned with Carver’s values. George Washington Carver was a renowned agricultural scientist and inventor who dedicated his life to improving the lives of farmers and promoting enduring agricultural practices. The medal seeks to honor those who, like Carver, exhibit a dedication to innovation, service, and the betterment of society.
Event Details
The visit will include a dinner by invitation at 5:30 p.m., followed by a public panel discussion at 7 p.m. in Simpson’s Smith Chapel. The panel discussion will provide an possibility for students, faculty, and the wider community to engage with Hannah-Jones and discuss her work on racial equity and American history.
Nikole Hannah-jones: A Leading Voice on Racial Equity
Hannah-Jones’s work has been instrumental in sparking national conversations about race, history, and justice. Her reporting and scholarship challenge conventional narratives and offer a more nuanced understanding of the American experience.She has received numerous awards and accolades for her journalism, including a MacArthur Fellowship in 2021 and a National Magazine Award.
Beyond the 1619 Project, Hannah-Jones has written extensively on segregation and school resegregation for The New york Times.Her work consistently highlights the systemic inequalities that continue to shape American society.
Looking Ahead
Nikole Hannah-Jones’s visit to Simpson College represents a meaningful opportunity for the campus community to engage with a leading intellectual and advocate for social justice. Her presence underscores Simpson College’s commitment to fostering critical thinking, promoting diversity, and preparing students to be engaged citizens.
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