Sarah Lawrence alumnae Ann Patchett ‘85 and Vera Wang ‘71 were among a group of artists, creatives, and visionaries awarded the White House’s National Humanities Medals and the National Medal of Arts.
Patchett received the National Humanities Medal for her writings on the complexities of human nature. First awarded in 1996, the National Humanities Medal honors individuals or organizations whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the human experience.
Wang received the National Medal of Arts, the highest American award given to artists, art patrons, and groups that have advanced arts in the United States.
Tuesday’s ceremony marked the first time President Joe Biden has held a ceremony for these awards since taking office. Read the transcript of President Biden’s remarks here.