David M. Rubenstein, JD’73, chair of the University of Chicago’s Board of Trustees, has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
An international leader in business, public affairs, and higher education and the arts, Rubenstein was recognized for his “philanthropy and generous support for the restoration of historic landmarks and the country’s cultural institutions.”
Rubenstein is co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, one of the world’s most successful private investment firms. Renowned for his patriotic philanthropy, Rubenstein has made transformative gifts for the restoration or repair of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Monticello, Montpelier, Mount Vernon, Arlington House, Iwo Jima Memorial, the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian, the National Archives, the National Zoo, the Library of Congress, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Rubenstein received his medal from President Joe Biden on Jan. 4 at the White House, where he was recognized as “a transformational business leader and philanthropist.” The citation added: “His leadership reminds us that, at our best, we learn from, preserve and share our history, so that everyone sees themselves in the story of America.”
Rubenstein is the 15th member of the UChicago community to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“This recognition underscores David’s extraordinary contributions to philanthropy, public service and cultural preservation,” said UChicago President Paul Alivisatos. “His generosity and dedication have transformed civic and academic institutions, reflecting the values this prestigious award represents. He, in so many ways, exemplifies the Chicago mindset of rigor, imagination, wit and service.”
A 1973 graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, Rubenstein also served the country on the Senate Judiciary Committee and in the Carter administration. He is the host of The David Rubenstein Show and Bloomberg Wealth with David Rubenstein; and the author of The American Story, How to Lead and The American Experiment.
Rubenstein is one of three members of the UChicago community to be honored in Washington this month. Prof. Wendy Freedman was awarded the National Medal of Science on Jan. 3 for her groundbreaking research in cosmology, and on Jan. 10 President Alivisatos will receive the Enrico Fermi Presidential Award for his pioneering work in nanoscience.
“I was very honored to be given this award by President Biden and also flattered to be included on the impressive list of those who were also honored,” Rubenstein said. “I’m also pleased that the President has also recognized Paul Alivisatos for his extraordinary achievements in nanoscience, and Wendy Freedman for her unmatched research in cosmology. It’s a proud moment for the University of Chicago.”
—Prof. Jacqueline Stewart
