The University of Wisconsin–Madison, the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, and the Department of Medical History and Bioethics are proud to share that Emeritus Professor Gregg Mitman was awarded the Humane Order of African Redemption, one of the highest honors conferred by the Republic of Liberia.
The award was presented by His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, on Thursday, July 24, 2025, as part of the country’s 178th Independence Day celebrations.
This distinguished honor recognized individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the people and progress of Liberia. Professor Mitman was honored for his decades of impactful, justice-driven scholarship, global health advocacy, and long-standing partnerships with Liberian communities, scholars, and institutions.
Throughout his career, Professor Mitman’s work explored the intersections of health, the environment, colonial legacies, and capitalism—particularly in West Africa. His award-winning film The Land Beneath Our Feet and his research on Firestone in Liberia sparked international dialogue on land rights, labor history, and environmental justice, while amplifying Liberian voices and perspectives.
At UW–Madison, Professor Mitman mentored generations of students and researchers, helping shape the interdisciplinary direction of the Department of Medical History and Bioethics. His legacy continues to influence critical conversations about ethics, equity, and global responsibility in medicine and public health.
We celebrate this extraordinary achievement and the enduring global impact of Professor Mitman’s work.