Distinguished alumni

Dr. James C. Kennedy ’84 Distinguished Professional Achievement

James is a professor of modern Dutch history and a distinguished university professor of community engaged learning at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He previously served as dean of University College Utrecht, which offers an English-language undergraduate program at Utrecht University. The author of many books and articles on Dutch history, James was chairman of the committee that presented a revised version of the Canon of the Netherlands, a historical canon that includes 50 important persons, objects and events that played pivotal roles in the country’s historical and cultural development. James holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, a master’s degree from Calvin College and Seminary, and a doctorate from the University of Iowa. He and his wife, Simone, have hosted Northwestern alumni and friends for bike tours in the Netherlands, during which James shares his historical expertise.

Award year: 2025