Honorary Doctorate to Janet Currie

During USI's 28th Dies academicus, Janet Currie, Professor at Princeton University, was conferred the Honorary Doctorate in Economics for her contribution as "a pioneer in the economic analysis of children's development and physical and mental well-being, a rigorous analyst of the impact of public policy and environmental threats."

Laudatio to Janet Currie

Giovanni Pica
Dean of the Faculty of Economics

Janet Currie earned her doctorate in economics from Princeton University, where she currently holds the prestigious position of Henry Putnam Professor of Economics and Public Affairs. She has distinguished herself as a leading figure in the field of economic research and public policy. She is the director of the Center for Health and Well Being at Princeton University and co-director of the Program on Children at the National Bureau of Economic Research.

With an academic career at renowned institutions such as the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), MIT, and Columbia University, Professor Currie has established her reputation as a leader in the field of applied economics. Her commitment and dedication are also highlighted by her two honorary doctorates from the University of Zurich and Université Jean Moulin Lyon III.

Her influence on economic research is undeniable. With four books and more than 150 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, boasting over 50,000 citations, Professor Currie has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. As a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the recipient of numerous awards, including the presidency of the American Economic Association, Professor Currie stands out as one of the brightest minds in the field. These accolades attest to her prominent role in the global academic landscape and her reputation as one of the most influential researchers in the field of economics. Currie's continued guidance and inspiration to generations of scholars is a testament to her lasting impact on the world of economic research.

What truly sets Professor Currie's career apart is her unwavering commitment to combining academic research with tangible social impact. Her work dedicated to the development and physical and mental well-being of children is just one of many examples of her outstanding contribution to public policy making. Professor Currie's work in this field has had a significant impact, directly influencing the decisions of the US Presidency. Her ability to translate academic research into concrete action demonstrates her extraordinary dedication to improving people's lives and society as a whole.

Janet Currie's scientific influence and the prestigious accolades she has received highlight her leadership in economic research, always striving to solve vital social issues. Her commitment to the use of rigorous economic analysis tools and her profound dedication to the betterment of society constitute an essential reference point for the entire academic community.