Ordre des Palmes académiques


The Ordre des Palmes académiques is a national order bestowed by the French Republic on distinguished academics and for valuable service to universities, education and science. Originally established in 1808 by Emperor Napoleon as a decoration to honour eminent members of the University of Paris, it was changed into its current form as an order of merit on 4 October 1955 by President René Coty.

History

Decoration

The original Palmes académiques was instituted on 17 March 1808 and was bestowed only upon teachers or professors. In 1850, the decoration was divided into two classes:
In 1866, the scope of the award was widened to include major contributions to French national education and culture made by anyone, including foreigners. It was also made available to French expatriates who made major contributions to learning or education in the wider world.

Order

Since 1955, the Ordre des Palmes académiques has had three grades, each with a fixed number of recipients:
The minimum age of conferment is 35 years. Decisions on nominations and promotions are decided by the Minister of National Education. For those not connected to state-sponsored public education, or the Ministry of National Education, these honours are announced on 1 January, New Year's Day. For all others, they are made on 14 July, Bastille Day.

Notable recipients

French recipients

The badge, unchanged since its creation in 1808, consists of a pair of violet-enamelled palm branches. It is suspended from a plain violet ribbon.
Member/Knight Officer Commander