Thomas Sargent, NYU, was just named one of 2011′s Nobel Prize Winners in Economics. Sargent was among the judges who deemed Ben worthy of winning NYU’s highest honor, the Borgman-Phi Beta Kappa prize for outstanding undergraduate honors thesis: ’Functional Data Analysis of Economic Bubbles: Creating a Coherent Shape of Inflationary Phenomena’.
Tag Archives: Ben Levine NYU
VioletGlory
On stage at the Javits Center stands Ben with 3 other honored undergrads behind faculty illuminati during NYU’s College of Arts and Sciences graduation. 1,800 classmates cheer him on from the floor as he is introduced recipient of the Borgman-Phi Beta Kappa prize for most outstanding undergrad honors thesis: ‘Functional Data Analysis of Economic Bubbles: Creating a Coherent Shape of Inflationary Phenomena’.
As Ben crosses the stage with his diploma in Economics (highest honors) and Journalism (magna cum laude), President John Sexton reaches for a heartfelt hug. Ben says, ‘Thank you, John’. John replies, ‘Thank you, Ben’. Kleenex please. 
Next day, Violets in Yankee Stadium? A sea of purple stands. Joe’s smilin’. No, not joltin’ Joe. He’s there too with E.A. and Ellis. Bill Clinton emerges from the dugout right in front of Ben & Co. Bill’s speech had that politically charged Clintonesque touch of pure inspiration. Best of all, no purple rain.
Filed under Arts, Economics, Journalism
BenDay
Happy 21st Ben! As is typical of you, the day will be spent working for Senator Gillibrand, helping her constituents get tax refunds, war medals and researching funding and tax policy. Soon you will be the sole undergrad student on the committee to choose the new Dean of NYU’s Liberal Arts College. President Sexton has good taste. A summer article appears in the Washington Square News where you will complete your term as Opinion Editor this Fall.
As you near graduation you’ve already accomplished more than most. To say that I am proud is obvious. Over the years we’ve learned a lot from each other. I gain insights and perspective from you all the time. I am happy that you still seek my advice as well as your Dad’s. We love that we remain resources even if you’ve eclipsed us in your knowledge of technology, economics and many other fields.
Can’t believe it has been 21 years since I walked across Lafayette Park in SanFran to get you born. Apologies for the indulgent post, but’s it’s my blog and I’ll kvell if I want to. Happy Birthday Benjamin Philip Joseph!
Filed under Journalism, Politics
