Academic Scholarships, Fellowships and Prizes

Award Descriptions

Previous Recipients

Kenneth W. Underwood Prize in Social Ethics

Awarded to the College of Social Studies student selected to discuss a paper on the subject of social ethics delivered by a guest scholar at one of the two annual CSS banquets.

Baldwin Fellowship

Established in 1952 by family and friends of Horace Reed Baldwin, Class of 1947, and awarded annually for study at law school to the member of the senior class who, in the opinion of the committee, shows the most promise of becoming an outstanding lawyer and public-spirited citizen.

Bertman Prize

Established in memory of Bernard T. Bertman, associate professor of physics, by gifts from his colleagues, family, and friends, in 1970. Awarded to a senior majoring in physics who displays a particularly resourceful and creative approach to physics research.

Blankenagel Prize

Income from the John C. Blankenagel Fund, established in 1970, awarded at the discretion of the Department of German studies to enrich educational offerings in the area of humanistic studies, or to assist a superior student in completing a project in German studies.

Bradley Prize

The gift of Stanley David Wilson, Class of 1909, in memory of Professor Walker Parke Bradley, to the senior or junior who excels in chemistry and particularly in special original work.

Briggs Prize

Established in 1900 by the gift of James E. Briggs, to the student who has done the most effective work in intercollegiate debating.

Professor Samuel Hugh Brockunier Prize

Awarded for the best final essay on a social studies topic by a student in the Graduate Liberal Studies Program.

George H. Acheson and Grass Foundation Prize in Neuroscience

Established in 1992 by a gift from the Grass Foundation, this prize is awarded to an outstanding undergraduate in the Neuroscience and Behavior Program who demonstrates excellence in the program and who also shows promise for future contributions in the field of neuroscience.

Alumni Prize in the History of Art

Established by Wesleyan alumni and awarded to a senior who has demonstrated special aptitude in the history of art and who has made a substantive contribution to the major.

American Chemical Society Analytical Award

Awarded for excellence in analytical chemistry.

American Chemical Society Connecticut Valley Section Award

Awarded for outstanding achievement to a graduating chemistry major.

American Institute of Chemists Award

Awarded for outstanding achievement to a graduating chemistry major.

Ayres Prize

The gift of Daniel Ayres, Class of 1842, to the first-year student who attains the highest academic standing in the first semester.

Baden-Württemberg―Connecticut Sister State Exchange

A grant for one academic year's study at a university in the German state of Baden-Wüerttemberg, administered by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education.

Erness Brody Prize

Established in 2002 by Ann duCille in honor of Professor Erness Bright Brody, former chair of the African American Studies Program. Awarded annually to a senior African American Studies Program major for excellence in written expression.

Bruner Freshman Improvement Prize

The gift of William Evans Bruner, Class of 1888, to the student whose second-semester first-year record shows the greatest relative improvement over that of the first semester.

Butler Prize

The Butler Prize, established in 1991 in honor of retiring colleague Jeffrey D. Butler, is awarded for the best Honors thesis in African, Asian or Latin American History.

Butterfield Prize

Established by the Class of 1967 and awarded to the graduating senior who has exemplified those qualities of character, leadership, intellectual commitment and concern for the Wesleyan community shown by Victor Lloyd Butterfield, 11th president of the University.

Camp Prize

Established in 1905 by the Board of Trustees in memory of Samuel T. Camp, trustee 1880-1903. Awarded for excellence in English literature.

Frank Capra Prize

Established in 1983 to honor Frank Capra, Hon. 1981, the great American film director whose collected papers are in the Wesleyan Cinema Archives. Best film to exemplify Capra's skill in telling a human story that contains both humor and pathos.

Chadbourne Prize

The gift of George Storrs Chadbourne, Class of 1858, to that member of the first-year class outstanding in character, conduct, and scholarship.

Clark Fellowship

Established in memory of John Blanchard Clark by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Clark of Pittsford, New York; his sister, Catherine; relatives; and friends. Awarded annually to a qualified graduating senior of Wesleyan University for graduate study in a school of medicine. Recipients are judged by members of the Health Professions Panel on their potential for outstanding achievement and for their promise of community leadership and public-spirited citizenship and for their scholastic record at Wesleyan.

Clee Scholarship

Established by friends and associates of Gilbert Harrison Clee, Class of 1935, late president of the Board of Trustees. Awarded annually to a member of the junior class, who will remain a Clee Scholar throughout his or her junior and senior years, who will have demonstrated high standards of leadership, a deep commitment to Wesleyan University, an interest in the broad implications of multinational business enterprises, a sensitivity to the need for a creative balance between the public and private sectors, and an intention to pursue a career in business. A specific objective will be to select individuals who exemplify the qualities that characterized Gilbert Harrison Clee as a humane person and as a leader.

Dr. Neil Clendeninn Prize

Established in 1991 by George Thornton, Class of 1991 and David Derryck, Class of 1993, for the African American student who has achieved academic excellence in biology and/or molecular biology and biochemistry. This student must have completed his or her sophomore year and in that time have exemplified those qualities of character, leadership, and concern for the Wesleyan community as shown by Dr. Neil Clendeninn, Class of 1971.

Cole Prize

Established through the gift of George Henry Walker, Class of 1981, in the memory of Charles Edward Cole. Awarded to the first-year student who shows the greatest ability in fiction or nonfiction writing.

Connecticut Higher Education Community Service Award

Established in 1993 by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education to promote community service leadership and activities by students at Connecticut’s institutions of higher education. This award recognizes outstanding student contributions to the promotion of community service through projects that increase student participation in their college community and projects that develop a unique approach to effective community service.

Graham Prize

The gift of James Chandler Graham, Class of 1890, awarded to a member of the graduating class for excellence in natural science.

Grant/Wilcox Prize

Awarded in honor of Connecticut filmmakers Ellsworth Grant and Roy Wilcox to the senior whose work in film and video best addresses significant environmental, social, or artistic issues.

Hallowell Prize

Established by friends and associates of Burton C. Hallowell, Class of 1936, former professor of economics and executive vice president of the University. Awarded annually to an outstanding senior in the study of social science, as determined by the governing board of the Public Affairs Center.

Hawk Prize

The gift of Philip B. Hawk, Class of 1898, as a memorial to his wife, Gladys, to the students who have done the most effective work in biochemistry.

Health Education Prize

Awarded annually to the graduating senior who best exemplifies the goals of Wesleyan’s Health Education Program, which are the promotion of healthy lifestyles and disease prevention. The student who is chosen for this prize has demonstrated commitment not only to his or her personal well-being but has also served as a role model to peers in the Wesleyan community and beyond.

Heideman Award

Established in 1972, in honor of Enid and Walter Heideman. Awarded annually to an undergraduate who has helped others in the Wesleyan community, in the tradition of the Heidemans.

Rachel Henderson Theater Prize

Awarded annually to that student who, in the estimation of the theater faculty, has contributed most to theater at Wesleyan over the course of his or her undergraduate career.

Holzberg Fellowship

Established in memory of Jules D. Holzberg, professor of psychology, by gifts of his colleagues and friends. Awarded to a senior who intends to pursue graduate study in clinical or community psychology in recognition of the commitment to research and applied work on the resolution of social problems on the individual and collective level that is consistent with Professor Holzberg's lifelong professional interests and humanitarian concerns.

Horgan Prize

Established by the Department of English in honor of Paul Horgan, professor emeritus and writer-in-residence. Awarded to the student who has written the best short story of the year.

Herbert H. Hyman Prize

Established by the Department of Sociology to honor Herbert H. Hyman, distinguished scholar, pioneer in survey research methodology, and Professor Emeritus in the Department of Sociology. Awarded annually to students, whether sociology majors or not, who in the opinion of the faculty have written outstanding theses on a sociological topic.

Ingraham Prize

The gift of Robert Seney Ingraham, Class of 1888, and his wife, for excellence in New Testament Greek or, in years when a course in that subject is not given, for excellence in a course in Greek elective for juniors and seniors.

Jessup Prize

Awarded to two undergraduates each year who are deemed to show the greatest talent and promise for even greater excellence in sculpture, printmaking, architecture, photography, painting, or drawing. The prize is given in memory of Pauline Jessup, a noted interior designer, who practiced her craft for over 60 years throughout the United States. Mrs. Jessup was noted for her unerring eye, her extraordinarily refined taste, and her steadfast commitment to her clients—many of whom she served over three generations. The award is determined by the Department of Art and Art History.

Johnston Prize

The gift of David George Downey, Class of 1884, in memory of Professor John Johnston. Awarded to those first-year students or sophomores whose performance in their first two semesters of physics shows exceptional promise.

Keasbey Memorial Scholarship

Awarded by the Keasbey Memorial Foundation on the basis of academic excellence and a strong record of extracurricular participation for two years of graduate study in England.

P. L. Kellam Prize

Established in memory of Priscilla L. Kellam, Class of 1983, by her husband. Awarded annually to a senior woman, under the age of 25, who has majored in East Asian Studies and has traveled or plans to travel to China to further her studies.

Barry Kiefer Prize

In memory of Barry I. Kiefer to celebrate outstanding graduating Ph.D. students in Biology and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.

Richard McLellan Prize

Awarded annually to a junior who exemplifies those qualities that characterize the late Richard McLellan, Director of the Career Planning Center and Associate Dean of the College: character, leadership, commitment to public service and diversity, wide cultural interests, and a sense of humor.

Meyer Prize

Established in 1991 in honor of retiring colleague Donald A. Meyer, is awarded for the best Honors thesis in American History.

Monroe Prize

Established in 1985 by the Center for African American Studies in memory of John G. Monroe, director, scholar, and teacher in the Center for African American Studies and in the Department of Theater. This prize is to be awarded annually to the Wesleyan sophomore or junior who, in the opinion of the review committee, submits the best scholarly essay in the field of African American studies.

Janina Montero Prize

Awarded annually to a Latino student who has promoted the health, visibility, and participation of the Latino community at Wesleyan. The individual should best exemplify personal integrity, leadership, and motivation; a strong interest in and knowledge of his or her background; and have maintained a high level of commitment to Wesleyan's academic and intellectual enterprise.

Geraldine J. Murphy Prize

Established in memory of Geraldine J. Murphy, who was the first woman hired as a full-time instructor at Wesleyan (1957), the first woman promoted to a tenured position, and the first woman promoted to the rank of full professor. The prize is endowed by alumni of the Wesleyan Master of Arts in Teaching program. Awarded to a student who has written an outstanding critical essay that focuses on short fiction or novels.

Needler Prize

Established by Sophie Needler, in memory of her husband, Bennett Needler. Awarded annually to one or two graduating seniors who have demonstrated excellence in Hebrew or Jewish studies.

Carol B. Ohmann Memorial Prize

Awarded for excellence in Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

Olin Fellowship

Founded in 1854 by the wife of Stephen Olin, president, 1839-41 and 1842-51. Later increased by gifts of their son, Stephen Henry Olin, Class of 1866 and acting president, 1922-23, and his wife, Emeline. Awarded in recognition of achievement in English. The fellowship supports supervised work in English outside of the Wesleyan course structure.

Outreach and Community Service Award

Awarded to the senior theater major who, through his or her work in the Department of Theater, has done a significant service in the community.

Parker Prize

Established in 1870 by the Reverend John Parker, Trustee 1859-71. Awarded to a sophomore or junior who excels in public speaking.

Peirce Prize

Awarded in successive years for excellence in biology, chemistry, and geology.

Prentice Prize

The gift of Mrs. Elizabeth Brooks Prentice in memory of Professor George Prentice to that junior or senior who excels in German. This prize is given in alternate years.

Reed Prize

Established in 1968 by Leon Reed and his sons, S. Chadwick, Class of 1941, and Dr. Victor Reed, in memory of Mrs. Sophie Reed, for the best poem or group of poems.

Rice Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a senior.

Rich Prize

The gift of Isaac Rich, trustee 1849-72, in memory of his wife, and later supplemented by appropriations from the Board of Trustees. Awarded to those seniors whose orations are judged best in composition and delivery.

Robertson Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a sophomore.

Robins Memorial Prize

Established in 1969, in memory of George D. Robins 1898, by Frank D. Robins 1934, and Douglas H. Robins 1966, for excellence in history.

Stephen J. Ross Prize

Established in 1979 as a gift of Steven J. Ross of Warner Communications. Awarded annually for the best undergraduate film, digital, and/or virtual made in the Department of Film Studies.

Juan Roura-Parella Prize

Established in 1984 to be awarded annually to an undergraduate whose work represents the kind of catholic curiosity and general learning that Professor Juan Roura-Parella exemplified.

Sherman Prize―Classical Studies

Established by David Sherman, D.D., Class of 1872. Two prizes awarded annually, one for excellence in first-year mathematics and the other for excellence in classics.

Sherman Prize―Math

Established by David Sherman, D.D., Class of 1872. Two prizes awarded annually, one for excellence in first-year mathematics and the other for excellence in classics.

Rae Shortt Prize

Established in memory of Rae M. Shortt. Awarded to a junior for excellence in mathematics.

Samuel C. Silipo Prize

Awarded annually for the most valuable player(s) of the Wesleyan orchestra.

Silverman Prize

Established by gift of Elisha Adelbert Silverman, Class of 1922, and awarded to a member of the junior or senior class for excellence in chemistry.

Siver Scholarship

Established by Mr. and Mrs. Chester A. Siver in memory of their son Roger Brooks Siver, who graduated from Wesleyan in 1968. Awarded to undergraduate students majoring in or demonstrating strong academic interest in physics.

Skirm Prize

Established by members of the Class of 1931 in memory of their classmate, Thomas H. Skirm, this prize is awarded to a government major early in his or her senior year, to recognize the best research or writing project done during the junior year.

Annie Sonnenblick Writing Award

Established by the family of the late Annie Sonnenblick, Class of 1980, in 1992 as a complement to the annual Annie Sonnenblick Lecture. The prize provides financial support for a student who wishes to undertake an independent writing project during the summer between his or her junior and senior years.

Spinney Prize

The gift of Joseph S. Spinney, trustee 1875-82 and 1888-93, for excellence in Greek. Awarded for the best original essay on some aspect of Greek or Roman civilization.

Spurrier Award

The William A. Spurrier Ethics Award, established by Dr. James Case, given to the student who demonstrates in the field of ethics: sensitivity, insight, depth, and humor. Given in memory of William Spurrier III, chaplain and Hedding Professor of Moral Science and Religion.

Herbert Lee Connelly Prize

Given in 1980 by Mabel Wells Connelly in the name of her husband, member of the Class of 1909, and alumni secretary, 1924-56. Supplemented by friends, relatives, and sons Hugh Wells and Theodore Sample, Class of 1948, the fund provides income to be awarded annually to a deserving undergraduate who demonstrates an interest in English literature and an unusual ability in nonfiction writing.

CRC Award

Awarded to an outstanding first-year chemistry student, based on grades in organic chemistry over the interval of the current academic year.

Davenport Prize

Established in 1948 by the gift of Ernest W. Davenport in honor of his brother, Frederick Morgan Davenport, Class of 1889, for excellence shown by seniors in the field of government and politics.

Dorchester Prize

Established through the gift of Daniel Dorchester IV, Class of 1874. Awarded for the best thesis submitted to the English Department.

W.E.B. DuBois Prize

Awarded annually for academic excellence to a student majoring in African American studies.

Dutcher Prize

Established by gift of Arthur A. Vanderbilt, Class of 1910, in honor of Professor George Matthew Dutcher, for highest excellence in the Department of History.

Kevin Echart Memorial Book Prize

Awarded to the graduating College of Letters senior who best exemplifies the intellectual curiosity and range, the pleasure in colloquy, the capacity for admiration and skepticism, and the moral seriousness and love of books that we honored in our late colleague Kevin Echart and seek to foster in the students of the College of Letters.

Susan Frazer Prize

Awarded annually to the student (or students) who has done the most distinguished work in the elementary and intermediate French language sequence.

Freeman Prize

Established in 1975 by Mansfield Freeman, Class of 1916. Awarded annually to a senior for excellence in East Asian studies.

Beulah Friedman Prize

This prize recognizes work of outstanding achievement by a student in the history of art. The prize is awarded to a member of the senior class.

Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad Grant

Awarded by the United States Department of Education to fund individual doctoral students to conduct research in other countries in modern foreign languages and area studies for periods of six to twelve months.

Fulbright Fellowship

These grants are funded by the United States government under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (Fulbright-Hays Act) and by many foreign countries. The grants, administered by the Institute for International Education, provide for one year of study at a university abroad.

Gay, Lesbian, and Sexuality Studies Prize

Donated by the Wesleyan Gay and Lesbian Alumni Association (GALA), this prize is awarded annually to that undergraduate who has done the best research and writing on a subject in gay, lesbian, and sexuality studies.

German Academic Exchange Service Fellowship

At least one fellowship per year for study at a university in the Federal Republic of Germany is given to Wesleyan in honor of the Sesquicentennial. The German Academic Exchange Service is a private, self-governing organization of the German universities, which promotes international exchange among institutions of higher learning.

German Pedagogical Exchange Service Assistantship/Fulbright Grant

A one year teaching apprenticeship in Germany.

Giffin Prize

Established in 1912 by a gift of Mrs. Charles Mortimer Giffin, in memory of her husband, an honorary graduate of the Class of 1875. Awarded for excellence in the Department of Religion.

Akiva Goldsman Prize in Screenwriting

Awarded to the graduating film studies major who has written the best full-length screenplay in the Department of Film Studies.

Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship

Awarded by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation to a college student who has outstanding potential and intends to pursue a career in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering.

Leavell Memorial Prize―Film

Awarded annually to a senior film student who has done outstanding work in the major, and who best reflects the departmental goals of citizenship, scholarship, and the wedding of theory and practice.

Leavell Memorial Prize―Music

Awarded annually to a senior who has done outstanding work in music, and whose work manifests the ideals of the World Music Program in the Department of Music.

Leonard Prize

Given in 1917 in memory of William Day Leonard, Class of 1878, by his friends. Awarded annually by the faculty to one of three undergraduates nominated by the College Body who is thought to exemplify the highest standards of character and performance in his or her campus life.

Levy-Spira Prize

Awarded for distinction in Latin American studies. Established in 1992 in memory of Eduardo Levy-Spira, Class of 1982, by his family and friends.

Limbach Prize

Established in 1966 by Russell T. Limbach, professor of art, in memory of his wife, Edna Limbach. Awarded annually to the student who has contributed the most imaginative, generous, thoughtful, and understanding social service to the people of the City of Middletown and/or the Wesleyan community.

Lipsky Prize

The gift of the Reverend and Mrs. Bailey G. Lipsky in memory of their son, Francis Jules Lipsky, Class of 1931, to the member of the choir possessing in the highest degree unfailing kindliness, quiet dignity, and brilliant scholarship.

Littell Prize

The gift of Franklin Bowers Littell, Class of 1891, for excellence in one or more advanced courses in astronomy.

Luce Scholarship

The Henry Luce Foundation selects 18 graduates to spend a year in an Asian country and provides an experience that will broaden the participant's perspective on his or her chosen career field.

Robert S. Lynd Award

Established by the Department of Sociology to honor Robert S. Lynd, distinguished scholar. Awarded annually to students who have written the best scholarly papers in sociology in the previous year.

John W. Macy Summer Internship in Public Administration

Established by friends and colleagues of John W. Macy, Class of 1938. Awarded to the junior who most clearly exemplifies, in the decision of the selection committee, the characteristics associated with John Macy: high intellectual ability, a capacity for sustained effort in difficult tasks, strong ethical standards, an ingrained sense of duty, and a commitment to public service as a worthy career.

Mann Prize

Established in memory of Albert Mann, Class of 1906, devoted alumnus and faculty member, by his daughters and their families. Awarded annually to the senior(s) showing the most outstanding achievements in the Romance languages.

Martius Yellow Award

Awarded for excellence in organic synthesis.

Roger Maynard Award

A memorial award to that senior scholar-athlete who best exemplifies the spirit, accomplishments, and humility of Roger Maynard, Class of 1937, former trustee.

Emily White Pendleton Scholarship

Established in 1979 by Ralph Darling Pendleton, founder of the Theater Department, in memory of his wife. Awarded annually to a dance major or to a student who is significantly involved in dance and who shows outstanding promise in the field.

Peterson Fellowships

Established in 1963 by bequest of William Harold Peterson, Class of 1907, for graduate study in biochemistry at Wesleyan.

Plukas Prize

Established in 1986 by John Plukas, Class of 1966, this prize is awarded to graduating economics seniors to be applied toward summer expenses, during which period each student will work under the supervision of a faculty adviser to convert an honors project into a publishable article.

Plukas Teaching Apprentice Award

Established in 1986 by John Plukas, Class of 1966, this prize is awarded for excellent service to the Economics Department as a teaching apprentice.

Gwen Livingston Pokora Prize

Established in 1993, awarded annually to the outstanding undergraduate student in music composition.

Rulewater Prize

Awarded for outstanding reflection and writing on an interdisciplinary topic in the Graduate Liberal Studies Program.

Scott Prize―Romance Languages and Literatures

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Scott Prize―Asian Languages and Literatures

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Scott Prize―German Studies

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Scott Prize―Russian and East European Studies

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Mary and John Sease Prize

Awarded for outstanding work in environmental science.

Sehlinger Prize

Established by the Class of 1965 in memory of Charles Edward Sehlinger III, who died in 1964. The award of a medical dictionary is given to a premedical student for excellence of character, community spirit, and academic achievement.

Frances M. Sheng Prize

Awarded for excellence in Chinese language and excellence in Japanese Language.

Thorndike Prize

Established by gift of Elizabeth Moulton Thorndike in memory of her husband, Edward Lee Thorndike, Class of 1895, for excellence in psychology.

Elizabeth Verveer Tishler Prize―Art

Established in 1981 by a gift from Mrs. Tishler. Awarded annually for an outstanding senior exhibition in painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, or architecture.

Elizabeth Verveer Tishler Prize―Music

Established in 1981 by a gift from Mrs. Tishler. Expanded in 1989 for excellence in piano performance. Two prizes are given annually: one for Western classical piano performance and the other for jazz piano performance.

Tishler Teaching Award

Established by the family and friends of Dr. Max Tishler, professor of chemistry, emeritus, and University Professor of the Sciences, emeritus. Awarded annually in his memory to the best graduate teaching assistant in chemistry.

Shu Tokita Prize

Established by friends and relatives of Shu Tokita, Class of 1984, and awarded to students of color studying literature and in area studies with a focus on literature. The recipient will be selected on the basis of his or her application essay and commitment to the study of literature.

Trench Prize

The gift of Miss Grace A. Smith, in memory of William James Trench, trustee 1835-67, for excellence in the Department of Religion.

Truman Scholarship

A national competition funded by the United States government, which provides scholarships for graduate study to juniors who have outstanding leadership potential and intend to pursue careers in public service.

Karl Van Dyke Prize

Awarded each year to one or more students majoring in physical science or having a predominant interest in physical science and technology and who show outstanding achievement in academic work and a promise of productivity in a professional career.

Vanguard Prize

Established by black alumni in tribute to the black members of the Class of 1969, whose perseverance and pioneering leadership earned them designation as the Vanguard Class. The prize is awarded annually to a graduating senior who has achieved academic excellence and contributed significantly to maintaining Wesleyan's racial diversity.

Walkley Prize

Two prizes, the gift of Webster Rogers Walkley, Class of 1860, in memory of David Hart Walkley, Class of 1878, for excellence in psychology. Awarded to those juniors and seniors who present the best reports or work embodying original research.

Watson Fellowship

Awarded by the Thomas J. Watson Foundation, to enable college graduates of unusual promise to engage in an initial postgraduate year of independent study and travel abroad.

Weller Prize

The gift of Mrs. LeRoy Weller, in memory of her husband, LeRoy Weller, Class of 1899, to the student having the highest academic average for the sophomore year.

Wesleyan Black Alumni Council Memorial Prize

Established in 1986 by the Wesleyan Black Alumni Council in memory of deceased black alumni. The prize provides a summer stipend to support a deserving student engaged in independent study or community service related to the concerns of black people.

Wesleyan Fiction Award

A gift from Norman Mailer to the Wesleyan Writing Program, this award recognizes an outstanding piece of fiction written by a Wesleyan student.

Wesleyan Memorial Prize

The gift of undergraduates in the Class of 1943 in memory of fellow students who made the supreme sacrifice in the Second World War, to the members of the junior class outstanding in qualities of character, leadership, and scholarship.

M.G. White Prize

Awarded annually for the best thesis submitted in American studies.

White Fellowship―Government

Awarded for excellence in government to a graduate or an advanced undergraduate in Government.

White Fellowship―History

Awarded for excellence in history.

White Prize

Established in 1942 by Horace Glenn White Jr., Class of 1933, and increased in 1943 by friends in his memory. Awarded for advanced undergraduate study in economics.

Wilde Prize

Established in 1963 by Frazer B. Wilde, L.L.D., Class of 1958, awarded to a junior or senior for excellence in economics.

Christopher Brodigan Fund Award

Established in memory of Christopher Brodigan, a Wesleyan student who died in an accident in his frosh year. The Fund pays tribute to Christopher's deep interest in Africa and to the public service he provided through teaching in Botswana prior to entering Wesleyan. Awarded to graduating seniors and recent graduates who plan to pursue public service or research in Africa.

David Morgan Prize

To be awarded annually to the senior major or majors in CSS and/or the Department of History who best demonstrated the integrity and commitment to community that characterized David's 37 years of service to his College, his Department, and to the University.

Cardinal Crest Award

Awarded to the member of the WSA who has given honor to his/her post on the WSA or one of its committees through his/her leadership, and has selflessly served the greater interest of the Wesleyan student body.

Mosaic Award

This award recognizes the contribution(s) of a person or organization that has brought about cultural awareness and education on one or more of the following issues: race, ethnicity, culture and/or sexual orientation.

Bridge Builder Award

Awarded to a student and student group who have succeeded in strengthening the relationship between Wesleyan and the greater Middletown community.

Exceptional Program Award

Awarded to the coordinator(s) of an exceptional program, cultural event, speaker or production that has had positive campus-wide impact.

Social Activist Award

Awarded to the individual or student group that best exemplifies the spirit of social activism and through his/her/their efforts, constructive social change ensued.

First-Year Leadership Award

Awarded to a first-year student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership or involvement in the Wesleyan community.

Senior Leadership Award

Awarded to a senior who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout his or her four years in the Wesleyan community.

Rhodes Scholarship

Two years of study at Oxford University, awarded on the basis of high academic achievement, integrity of character, a spirit of unselfishness, respect for others, potential for leadership, and physical vigor.

National Board of Review Charlie Andrews Award

Established by the National Board of Review in memory of Charlie Andrews who was a pioneer in television writing and producing. Awarded to the student who has written the best history/theory thesis in the Film Studies Department.

George C. Marshall Scholarship

Awarded annually, for two years of study at any university in the United Kingdom, on the basis of distinction of intellect and character as evidenced by both scholastic attainments and other activities and achievements; strong motivation and seriousness of purpose; and the potential to make a significant contribution to one's own society.

George J. Mitchell Scholarship

Awarded annually for one year of graduate study in any discipline offered by an institution of higher learning in Ireland or Northern Ireland on the basis of superior records of academic excellence, leadership, and public service.

William Firshein Prize

Awarded to the graduating MB&B student who has contributed the most to the interests and character of the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department.

Damain Garth Reeves Memorial Book Prize

Awarded to the first-year student who best embodies the personal and intellectual qualities of Damain Reeves, Class of 2000.

Peter Morgenstern-Clarren Social Justice Award

Awarded to a sophomore or junior with a demonstrated commitment to social justice issues.

Miller Family Foundation Prize

Established in 2001 by Bob and Catherine Miller, P '99 P '02. Awarded to individuals who pursue careers that benefit the community and the common good through education or service and advocacy.

Condil Award

Given in memory of Caroline Condil, Class of 1992, and is awarded to a worthy East Asian Studies major, preferably a sophomore or junior, for study in China.

Beinecke Scholarship

Awarded by the Sperry Fund for graduate study in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Richard A. Miller Summer Internship Grant

Awarded in honor of Woodhouse/Sysco Professor of Economics Richard A. Miller to students pursuing summer internships related to potential business careers.

Robert Schumann Distinguished Student Award

Established in 2007 by a gift from the Robert Schumann Foundation. Awarded to an outstanding student who demonstrates academic accomplishment and excellence in environmental stewardship through work at Wesleyan or the greater Middletown Community.

Winchester Fellowship

Established in 1938, in memory of Professor Caleb Thomas Winchester, by his widow. Awarded to Wesleyan graduates for postgraduate work in English.

Wise Prize

The gift of Daniel Wise, D.D., Class of 1859, for excellence in the Department of Philosophy; for the best essay on moral science or on some subject in the field or values.

Scott Biomedical Prize

Awarded to a member(s) of the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry senior class who has demonstrated excellence and interest in commencing a career in academic or applied medicine.

Senior Prize in Computer Science

Endowed in 2008 by the Fernando and Appapillai families in honor of Dr. Michael D. Rice and awarded for excellence in computer science to a senior.

French Government Teaching Assistantship

One-year assistantship for teaching English at a lycée in France, administered by the Institute for International Education (New York).

Graduate Student of the Year Award

Awarded to a graduate student who has proven to be a vital and dynamic member of the Wesleyan community through taking on an active leadership role in campus life.

Student Organization of the Year

Awarded to a student organization that has excelled in sustaining leadership, an active membership and programmatic efforts that contribute to the larger Wesleyan community.

Outstanding Collaboration Award

Awarded for a program which was successfully planned in the spirit of partnership and team work.

Macmillan Scholar of Saint Andrew's Society of the State of New York

Awarded by the Saint Andrew's Society of the State of New York, this scholarship enables outstanding college graduates of Scottish descent to engage in a year of graduate study in Scotland.

Joan W. Miller Prize

Established by Professor Miller in 2008. It is awarded for the outstanding Honor’s Thesis in the College of Social Studies.

Tölölyan Fund for the Study of Diasporas and Transnationalism

Established in 2008 by Bruce Greenwald, Professor of Economics at Columbia Business School, in honor of Wesleyan Professor Khachig Tölölyan. The award funds the summer research of a junior with the best proposal for a thesis on the study of diasporic or transnational issues.

David A. Titus Memorial Prize

Established by family, friends, and students in memory of Professor David Titus to support the summer studies of a deserving Wesleyan junior majoring in Government, East Asian Studies, or the College of Social Studies.

James T. Gutmann Field Studies Scholarship

Established in 2007 by Lisette Cooper ’81, to honor her former professor and mentor, Prof. James T. Gutmann. Awarded to an especially promising major in Earth & Environmental Sciences to support geologic field research expected to lead to a senior honors thesis.

Barry Kiefer Prize

In memory of Barry I. Kiefer to celebrate outstanding graduating Ph.D. students in Biology and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.

Sarah Hannah Prize

Offered in memory of Sarah Hannah, class of 1988, in association with the Academy of American Poets and awarded for an outstanding poem.

Weidenfeld Scholarship

The Weidenfeld Scholarship supports all tuition fees and living costs associated with graduate study at Oxford University. It fosters European networks and promotes the post-university careers of its Scholars through work placements, long-term mentoring, and engagement in leadership and conferences.

NNK Award

Awarded for the best screenplay for an undergraduate film.

Chekhov Fiction Prize

Awarded by the College of Letters to the junior who submits the best short story of the year.

College of Letters Short Story Prize

Awarded by the College of Letters to the student who submits the best short story of the year.

Snopes Fiction Prize

Awarded by the College of Letters to the sophomore who submits the best short story of the year.

Nancy Campbell/National Trust for Historic Preservation Summer Internship Program

Established by friends and admirers in honor of Nancy Campbell, wife of former Wesleyan University President Colin Campbell, in recognition of her national leadership in historic preservation, and awarded to rising juniors or rising seniors.

Boylan Award

Given by Jennifer Boylan in honor of her classmate, Annie Sonnenblick, the award recognizes an outstanding piece of creative nonfiction, journalistic work, or writing for general readers.

Scott Prize―Arabic Studies

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Scott Prize―Hebrew Studies

Established by Charles Scott Jr., M.A., Class of 1886, and trustee 1905-22, in memory of John Bell Scott 1881, for excellence in modern languages.

Lebergott-Lovell Prize

In honor of Emeritus Professors of Economics Stanley Lebergott and Michael Lovell. To be awarded to the best paper written in the current academic year that uses econometric techniques to analyze an economic problem. Established in 2011 by Bruce Greenwald; first awarded in 2012.