UM to Honor David Alan Grier With Top Medal
The University of Michigan will present David Alan Grier with its President's Medal of Excellence at a Thursday ceremony.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Awards
The University of Michigan will award David Alan Grier the President's Medal of Excellence at a ceremony on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Grier is one of a half dozen recipients of the honor this year.
Why it matters
The President's Medal of Excellence recognizes contributions to the university's mission, whether made inside or outside the institution. For Ann Arbor, the ceremony highlights the university's ties to its alumni and the community it serves.
The honor is one of six presented this year, with a ceremony set for Thursday, November 5, 2026. Last year's recipients included Jalen Rose and U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, while this year's group spans government, academia, philanthropy and local advocacy.
The players
David Alan Grier
An actor and comedian known for his work on "In Living Color" and his Broadway performances, including the role of Jackie Robinson in The First.
University of Michigan
A public research university in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that grants the President's Medal of Excellence.
The details
Grier, who attended the University of Michigan in the 1970s, is honored for his contributions to the university's mission. His father also attended the school, and Grier won an Emmy during his run on "In Living Color" and earned a Tony nomination for playing Jackie Robinson in the Broadway musical The First.
Timeline
The 1970s: David Alan Grier attends the University of Michigan as a student.
Thursday, November 5, 2026: The President's Medal of Excellence ceremony honors Grier.
Culture Shift
The award continues an annual tradition in which the University of Michigan honors a mix of public figures, from athletes and lawmakers last year to a former senator and a local housing advocate this year. The breadth of recipients reflects the medal's recognition of both academic and non-academic contributions.
Residents of Ann Arbor can attend or follow the ceremony to see the university recognize its honorees. The event offers a chance to learn about the contributions behind each award.
The takeaway
Recognition from the University of Michigan spans entertainment, government, philanthropy and community service, showing how the medal honors a wide range of contributions. Readers interested in campus honors can watch for the November 5 ceremony.
What happens next
The President's Medal of Excellence ceremony for Grier takes place Thursday, November 5, 2026.
Further reading
Explore more awards coverage to see how honors like this one are recognized across the region.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mlive.
