Shantel
Key Takeaways:
- Louise Mirrer, Ph.D., President and CEO of the New-York Historical Society, has been awarded the inaugural Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize by the Driving Force Institute for Public Engagement (DFI).
- Mirrer, a distinguished historian, has dedicated her career to highlighting, documenting, and exhibiting important details about American history, exemplifying the spirit of the prize.
- The Buckley Prize recognizes individuals who advance a better understanding of the United States, and Mirrer’s significant contributions make her the perfect choice for the first-ever recipient.
- The award comes as the New-York Historical Society, under Mirrer’s leadership, celebrates its commitment to public understanding of history, historical scholarship, and education.
Introduction: Recognizing Louise Mirrer’s Contributions
Louise Mirrer, Ph.D., President and CEO of the New-York Historical Society, has been honored with the prestigious Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize by the Driving Force Institute for Public Engagement (DFI). The award acknowledges Mirrer’s exceptional efforts in highlighting and advancing a better understanding of American history.
Mirrer’s Impact and Two-Decade Tenure
Mirrer is set to mark two decades as the President and CEO of the New-York Historical Society, during which time she has revitalized the institution’s commitment to fostering public understanding of history and its relevance today. Additionally, Mirrer has actively supported historical scholarship and played a crucial role in educating young people.
The Significance of the Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize
The Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize, named after U.S. history advocate, benefactor, and retired businessman Walter W. Buckley Jr., is specifically designed to honor individuals who exemplify and advance a better understanding of the United States. According to Patrick Riccards, CEO of DFI, Mirrer perfectly embodies these qualities and is an ideal choice as the inaugural recipient. The Buckley family’s dedication and support for this cause have been greatly appreciated.
Riccards emphasizes the importance of understanding America’s ongoing story and appreciating how the nation has arrived at this point. Historians like Dr. Mirrer play a critical role in helping society comprehend its past and shape its future.
Mirrer’s Gratitude and Future Relevance
Expressing her gratitude for receiving the Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize, Louise Mirrer stated, “I’m honored to be the first person recognized in such a way and to receive this prestigious award from the Driving Force Institute for Public Engagement. I’m thankful for the support of all those who have contributed to the important work we do at the New-York Historical Society to make history matter. As we approach the 250th anniversary of our country’s founding, this award gains even more significance. It is a crucial time to ensure that New Yorkers and Americans fully connect with our history.”
Mirrer announced her decision to donate the $30,000 prize fund to the New-York Historical Society, further contributing to the organization’s mission.
Mirrer’s Contributions at the New-York Historical Society
Under Mirrer’s leadership, the New-York Historical Society has launched groundbreaking exhibitions, including “Slavery in New York,” “Nueva York,” “Chinese American: Inclusion/Exclusion,” “The Vietnam War: 1945 – 1975,” and “Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow.” Mirrer has overseen a $100 million capital campaign and established the Center for Women’s History, the first of its kind within a major American museum. She has also initiated special projects that educate sixth graders on civics and history, as well as assist green card holders in preparing for the naturalization exam.
