51ĀŅĀ×

51ĀŅĀ× proudly announced Kevin Mattson Ph.D. as the 2025 recipient of its highest faculty honorā€”the Distinguished Professor Awardā€”during the spring graduate commencement ceremony on Friday, May 2.

ā€œKevin Mattsonā€™s scholarship has profoundly shaped our understanding of modern American political thought, and his teaching has inspired generations of students to engage with history in meaningful, critical ways,ā€ said President Lori Stewart Gonzalez. ā€œThis recognition is a fitting tribute to a career defined by intellectual rigor, public engagement, and a deep commitment to educationā€™s transformative power.ā€

Mattson is the Connor Study Professor of Contemporary History in the College of Arts and Sciences. A nationally recognized historian, he has advanced modern interpretations of American political thought, progressive movements, and the role of intellectuals in public life. His influential body of workā€”spanning more than a dozen books and countless essaysā€”continues to shape academic and public discourse.

His writing on figures such as Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter has illuminated the role of media in shaping political narratives. He is also a fellow at the Center for American Progress and serves on the editorial board of Dissent magazine.

For over two decades, Mattson has inspired students through intellectually challenging courses grounded in dialogue, critical thinking, and mentorship.

ā€œDr. Mattson exemplifies the highest ideals of academic excellence,ā€ said Executive Vice President and Provost Don Leo. ā€œHis scholarship and teaching enrich both the academy and public life. We are proud to honor him with 51ĀŅĀ×ā€™s most prestigious faculty distinction.ā€

About the Award
The Distinguished Professor Award, first granted in 1959, is the Universityā€™s highest permanent faculty recognition, honoring outstanding scholarly and creative accomplishments. Recipients earn a lifetime designation, a one-quarter research leave, and the privilege of naming an undergraduate annually for a full-tuition Distinguished Professor Scholarship. The award is supported by an endowment from Edwin and Ruth Kennedy to the Baker Fund.