Three EMU historians honored at 62nd Annual Alumni Awards

Three EMU historians were honored at the 62nd Annual Eastern Michigan University Alumni Awards celebration on Friday, October 6, 2023. 

Brian James Egen (B.S. in History, 1992) received the Alumni Achievement Award, which is presented to alumni who have achieved distinction in their chosen field, clearly demonstrated the value of their college education, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. Egen is the executive producer of “Innovation Nation” and head of studio production at The Henry Ford Museum. He was recently reappointed to the Michigan Historical Commission by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. 

The Honorable Daniel S. Opperman (B.S. in History and Political Science, 1979) received the Distinguished Alumni Award, which is given to alumni who have achieved extraordinary distinction in their chosen field, demonstrated unusual service to others, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. In 2006, Opperman was sworn in as judge for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. He currently serves as Chief Judge for the Court. Opperman has provided extensive support for student travel and research in History and Political Science. 

Dr. Linda Pritchard received the John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award, which is presented to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to Eastern Michigan University or the Alumni Association of EMU. Professor Emerita of History, Pritchard retired from EMU I 2016. She also served as the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences and was the first Department Head of Women’s and Gender Studies. Pritchard is active in Women in Philanthropy at EMU.