Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eugene Robinson to receive Brandeis Medal

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eugene Robinson will receive the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law’s 2014 Brandeis Medal on April 9. The prize is the school’s highest honor and goes to advocates for social justice. March 10, 2014

“This award recognizes those who are champions for fundamental human rights and social justice,” said law dean Susan Duncan. “That’s why Eugene is so perfect for this award. Through his life’s work he has been an influential voice calling for equality, freedom and human compassion.”

Robinson is an author, columnist, political commentator and a former assistant managing editor of The Washington Post. His most recent book, “Disintegration: The Splintering of Black America,” was published in 2010.  He received a 2009 Pulitzer Prize in commentary for his columns on the 2008 presidential campaign.

The 6 p.m. event at The Brown Hotel, 335 W. Broadway, will take a unique approach, said Laura Rothstein, a law professor and co-chair of the Brandeis Award Committee.

“Since Eugene writes about many issues, we didn’t want to limit him to one topic. So he will have on-stage discussion with fellow journalist and UofL alumnus Bob Edwards in a format that is similar to the Kentucky Author Forum,” said Rothstein.

Topics expected to be covered include Edward Snowden and government transparency, “stand-your-ground” laws, racial disparity in crime sentencing, affirmative action and voting rights.

Bob Edwards, host of “The Bob Edwards Show” on Sirius XM Radio and “Bob Edwards Weekend” distributed by Public Radio International, is well-known as the first host of National Public Radio's “Morning Edition.” Edwards is a 1969 graduate of UofL.

The Brandeis Medal celebration is open to the public and costs $75 per person. Registration must be completed by March 25 by contacting Rebecca Wimberg at Rebecca.wimberg@louisville.edu or 502-852-6879. To learn more see https://www.law.louisville.edu/node/13621