Spring 2016 Prize Recipients

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.

  • Aarit Ahuja 2016
  • Rebecca Tom 2016

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.

  • Louise de Verteuil 2016
  • Penny Snyder 2016

American Chemical Society Analytical Award

Awarded for excellence in analytical chemistry.

  • Hanna Morales 2017

American Institute of Chemists Award

Awarded for outstanding achievement to a graduating chemistry major.

  • Sarah Briggs 2016

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biochemistry Honor Society

The ASBMB Honor Society recognizes exceptional undergraduate juniors and seniors pursuing a degree in the molecular life sciences. Students are recognized for their scholarly achievement, research accomplishments, and outreach activities in the molecular life sciences.

  • Helena Awad 2016
  • Noah Hamlish 2016
  • Selin Kutlu 2016
  • Melanie Parziale 2016
  • Julianne Riggs 2017
  • Zarek Siegel 2016

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.

  • Tristan Ang Tze Heng 2019
  • Sarah Goss 2019
  • Alexandra Imperiale 2019
  • Darcy Neureiter 2019

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.

  • Wankun Wang 2016

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.

  • Kiley Kennedy 2016

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.

  • Wy Ming Lin 2016
  • Arya Mistry 2016
  • Nicholas Selden 2016

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.

  • Rebecca Brill 2016

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.

  • Yael Davidov 2016

Bridge Builder Award

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

  • Kamilah O'Connor 2017

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.

  • Eleanor Black 2017
  • Alec Shea 2018
  • Alexa Wheeler 2017

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.

  • Michel de Konkoly Thege

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.

  • Sarah Altemus Cullen 2016
  • Kellyn Maves 2016
  • Hannah Norman 2016

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.

  • Joelle Dupiton 2016

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.

  • Rafael Orona 2018

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.

  • Maria Paterson 2016

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.

  • Juan Gallardo 2016
  • Samantha Hellberg 2016
  • Tyler Knowles 2016

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.

  • Justin Greene 2016
  • Daniel Maseda 2016

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.

  • Mara Woods-Robinson 2016

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.

  • Sarah Altemus Cullen 2016

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.

  • Ocean Gao 2019
  • Katherine Young 2019

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.

  • Silena Te 2016

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.

  • Asad Hassanali 2017

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.

  • Shada Sinclair 2016
  • Sarah Sylla 2017

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.

  • Ryan (Doc) Polk 2019 (Honorable Mention)
  • Claudia Schatz 2019 (First Prize)
  • Adriane Tharp 2019 (Honorable Mention)

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.

  • Isabel Volpe 2018
  • Anne Weinstock 2019

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.

  • Mara Woods-Robinson 2016 (First Place)

CRC Award

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

  • Alison Biester 2019
  • Theeraphop Prachyathipsakul 2019

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.

  • John Murchison 2016
  • Jessica Zalph 2016

Dorchester Prize

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

  • Rebecca Brill 2016
  • Juan Gallardo 2016
  • Ethan Hill 2016

W.E.B. DuBois Prize

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

  • Monique Siaw 2016
  • Alexis Walker 2016

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.

  • Alexandra Ricks 2016

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.

  • Noah Gup 2016
  • Sophie Zinser 2016

Exceptional Program Award

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

  • Black Arts Collective Showcase

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.

  • Noah Hamlish 2016
  • Savannah Morehouse 2016

First-Year Leadership Award

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

  • Joshua Nodiff 2019

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.

  • Casey Hellman 2019
  • Nathan Ko 2018
  • Darcy Neureiter 2019

Freeman Prize

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

  • Jordan Friedland 2016

French Government Teaching Assistantship

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

  • Valere Demuynck 2016
  • Ella Geismar 2016
  • Alyse Raboff 2016
  • Sophie Zinser 2016

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.

  • Samuel Ingbar 2016

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.

  • Colfax Phillips 2016
  • Nellie Triedman 2013

Fulbright Teaching Assistantship

Placement abroad providing classroom assistance to English language teachers while also serving as cultural ambassadors for the United States.

  • Leah Bakely 2016
  • Stephanie Blumenstock 2016
  • Abigail Gruppuso 2016
  • Tenzin Kyisarh 2016
  • Emily Weinstock-Collins 2016
  • Claire Wright 2016

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.

  • Joshua Byron 2016
  • Aileen Lambert 2016

Griffin 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.

  • Helen Handelman 2016

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.

  • Sofia Davila 2016
  • Victoria White 2016

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.

  • Chelsea Lassiter

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.

  • Hilary Brumberg 2017
  • Siri McGuire 2017
  • William Sawyer 2016

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.

  • Alexandra Ricks 2016
  • Jessica Zalph 2016

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.

  • Kathleen Radigan 2017

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.

  • Helena Awad 2016
  • Rebecca Jacobsen 2016
  • Selin Kutlu 2016
  • Zarek Siegel 2016
  • Silena Te 2016

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.

  • Leah Bakely 2016

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.

  • Nina Gurak 2016
  • Martin Luis Malabanan 2016
  • Daniel Wittenberg 2016

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.

  • Matthew Catron 2016
  • Miranda Haymon 2016
  • Aileen Lambert 2016
  • Daniel Maseda 2016

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.

  • Stephanie Blumenstock 2016
  • Samantha Hellberg 2016
  • Harim Jung 2016
  • Tyler Knowles 2016

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.

  • Ryan (Doc) Polk 2019 (First Place)
  • Avigayl Sharp 2017 (Honorable Mention)
  • Adriane Tharp 2019 (Honorable Mention)

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.

  • Elizabeth Alexion 2016

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.

  • Tristan Ang Tze Heng 2019
  • Julianna Harwood 2019

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.

  • Claire Wright 2016

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.

  • Abigail Gruppuso 2016

Barry Kiefer Prize Molecular Biology & Biochemistry

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

  • Jacob Herman GRAD

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.

  • Adam McGill 2016

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.

  • Angus Macdonald 2016

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.

  • James Gaston 2015
  • Sean Mihaljevich 2016
  • Gabe Nardie-Huffman 2015

Leonard Prize

Given in 1917 in memory of William Day Leonard, Class of 1878, by his friends. Awarded annually to the Member of the WSA who has given honor to hir post on The WSA or one of its committees through hir leadership, and has selflessly served the greater interest of the Wesleyan student body.

  • Sarah Altemus Cullen 2016
  • Aidan Martinez 2017

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.

  • Alexandra Ricks 2016
  • Delaine Winn 2016

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.

  • Hanna Holcomb 2018

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.

  • Wagaye Mesele 2016
  • Ian Selig 2016

Littell Prize

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

  • Lydia Tierney 2016

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.

  • Genna Mastellone 2017
  • Joshua Prywes 2017

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.

  • Stephanie Blumenstock 2016
  • Nadezhda Georgieva 2016
  • Jessica Katzen 2016
  • Kerry Nix 2016
  • Emily Weinstock-Collins 2016

Martius Yellow Award

Awarded for excellence in organic synthesis.

  • Eric Arsenault 2017

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.

  • Anne Dade 2016
  • Hans Erickson 2016

James L. McConaughy Writing Prize

Awarded for a piece of nonfiction writing, on a topic in the social sciences or sciences, that is designed to interest general readers. Funds for this award were given originally by members of the class of 1936 in honor of their classmate, James L. McConaughy, a former Governor of Connecticut and President of Wesleyan University.

  • Juliet Gelfman-Randazzo 2018 (Co-winner)
  • Gabriel Rosenberg 2016 (Co-winner)

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.

  • Bria Grant 2017

Meyer Prize

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

  • Alexandra Ricks 2016

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.

  • Deren Ertas 2016
  • Arthur Halliday 2016

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.

  • Mykhailo Iakovenko 2018

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.

  • Hailey Broughton-Jones 2018
  • Elijah Jimenez 2018

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.

  • Juan Gallardo 2016

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.

  • Zachary Brint 2016
  • John Nelson 2016

Peter Morgenstern-Clarren Social Justice Award

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

  • Aleyda Castro 2018

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.

  • Aryeh Lieber 2018 (Second Place)
  • Ezra Littlewood 2016 (First Place)

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.

  • Jacob Bordoley 2016
  • Emma Golub 2016

NNK Award

Awarded for the best screenplay for an undergraduate film.

  • Anna Cocuzzo 2016

Carol B. Ohmann Memorial Prize

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

  • Jennie He 2016 (Best Essay)
  • Rebecca Winkler 2016 (Best Thesis)

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.

  • Brooke Burns 2018
  • Sophie Chabon 2017
  • Oliver Goodman 2017
  • Benjamin Hornung 2018
  • Andrew Marshall 2019
  • Noah Mertz 2017
  • Jane Mortell 2018
  • Kathleen Radigan 2017
  • Avigayl Sharp 2017

Parker Prize

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

  • Benjamin Marvin-Vanderryn 2017
  • Grace Wong 2018

Peirce Prize

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

  • Hannah Steinberg 2016

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.

  • Bria Grant 2017

Peterson Fellowship

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

  • Swastik De GRAD
  • Seda Kilinc GRAD
  • Qi Zhang GRAD

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.

  • Mehmet Bilginsoy 2016
  • Phoebe Keegan 2016
  • Xiyue Li 2016
  • Anh Tuan Nguyen Viet 2016

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.

  • Korkrid Akepanidtaworn 2018
  • Nivin Alatrash 2017
  • Rachel Aronow 2017
  • Mattison Asher 2017
  • Fred Ayres 2017
  • Margaret Beaton 2016
  • Joseph Bongo 2018
  • Donovan Brady 2016
  • Yiren Chai 2017
  • Hae Seung Chang 2017
  • Laura Corcoran 2016
  • Caroline Elmendorf 2017
  • Miranda Gohh 2017
  • Sofia Goode 2017
  • Adam Greene 2016
  • Asad Hassanali 2017
  • Andrew Jacobs 2017
  • Abhisit Jiranaphawiboon 2016
  • Ariel Kaluzhny 2016
  • Connie Kang 2017
  • Jackson Ledger 2016
  • Xiyue Li 2016
  • Angela Lu 2016
  • Sean Mihaljevich 2016
  • Madison Moore 2016
  • Christopher Nanda 2016
  • Anh Tuan Nguyen Viet 2016
  • Colleen Pedlow 2017
  • Samara Prywes 2017
  • Haikal Ramadhan 2016
  • Angela Reiss 2016
  • Mikaela Helene Reyes 2017
  • Jennifer Robinson 2016
  • Andrew Samant 2017
  • Molly Schassberger 2017
  • Jaren Taenaka 2016
  • Alexander Ward 2016
  • Matthew Weinsier 2016
  • Courtney Wiegand 2017
  • Jiayi Xiong 2018
  • Jiayi Xu 2016
  • Isaac Yassky 2018

Gwen Livingston Pokora Prize

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

  • Matthew Stein 2016

The Wallace C. Pringle Prize for Research in Chemistry

Gift of Eleanor and Wallace Pringle and their family and friends. This prize is to be awarded annually by the Chemistry Department to a student for excellence in research.

  • Alexandra Malico 2016

Sophie and Anne Reed Prize

Established in 1968 by Leon Reed; his sons, S. Chadwick '41 and Dr. Victor Reed, and his grandson Ted Reed '70, in memory of Sophie Reed and Anne Reed, for the best poem or group of poems.

  • Julian Johnson 2019 (Third Place)
  • Angus Macdonald 2016 (Second Place)
  • Kathleen Radigan 2017 (First Place)

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.

  • Henry Martellier 2019

Rice Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a senior.

  • Yael Davidov 2016

Michael Rice 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.

  • Connor Justice 2016

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.

  • Elizabeth Alexion 2016
  • Gabriel Lipton Galbraith 2016

Robertson Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a sophomore.

  • Celeste Barnaby 2018
  • Zoe Bentley 2018
  • Maxwell Cembalest 2018
  • Gabriel Weinreb 2018

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.

  • Madeline James 2016

Steven 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.

  • Naomi Saito 2016
  • Mara Woods-Robinson 2016

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.

  • Laura Hess 2016
  • Harim Jung 2016

Rulewater Prize

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

  • Michaela Boller GLSP

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.

  • Rachel Eisman 2016
  • Claudia Flores 2016
  • Clara Pinsky 2016

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.

  • Jane Abolafia 2016
  • Michael Glasser 2016
  • Noah Hamlish 2016
  • Shelby Harper 2016
  • Katherine Lindeman 2016
  • Savannah Morehouse 2016
  • Melanie Parziale 2016
  • Shada Sinclair 2016
  • Zhongmou Sun 2016
  • Hanbin Wang 2016
  • Julian Weiss 2016

Scott Prize Arabic

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.

  • Andrew Olivieri 2018
  • Danielle Rothschild 2019

Scott Prize Chinese

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.

  • Elijah Jimenez 2018

Scott Prize French

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.

  • Valere Demuynck 2016
  • Niki Elahi 2019

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.

  • Hein Jeong 2016

Scott Prize Hebrew

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.

  • Miriam Kudler-Flam 2016
  • Clara Leonard 2016

Scott Prize Italian

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.

  • Steven Branan 2017

Scott Prize Japanese

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.

  • Yanjun Chen 2016

Scott Prize Korean

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.

  • Christine Leung 2017

Scott Prize Portuguese

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.

  • Cameron Hicks 2017

Scott Prize Russian

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.

  • Silena Te 2016

Scott Prize Spanish

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.

  • Leah Bakely 2016

Mary and John Sease Prize

Awarded for outstanding work in environmental science.

  • Lena Capece 2016
  • Alexandra Fireman 2016
  • Zachary Kaufman 2016

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.

  • Shelby Harper 2016

Senior Leadership Award

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

  • Hannah Sokoloff-Rubin 2016

Frances M. Sheng Prize

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

  • Sadichchha Adhikari 2016
  • Michael Henske 2016

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.

  • Holt Akers-Campbell 2016

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.

  • Theerapat Chiarawongse 2019
  • Mengyu Li 2019

Rae Shortt Prize

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

  • Yiren Chai 2017
  • Xiping Liu 2017

Samuel C. Silipo Prize

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

  • Kristin Bumsch 2016
  • Harim Jung 2016

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.

  • Daniel Laorenza 2016

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.

  • Eric Arsenault 2017
  • Darci Collins 2018
  • Jacob Lashner 2016

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.

  • Nicholas Murphy 2016
  • Jessica Zalph 2016

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.

  • Arpita Vora 2016

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.

  • Emily Black 2017
  • Avigayl Sharp 2017

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.

  • Sarah Harper 2016

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.

  • Stephanie Dawson 2016

Studio Art Program Prize

Awarded to one or more students who show particular promise for success as demonstrated through performance in classes, and general contributions to the department.

  • Casey Herrick 2016
  • Addison McDowell 2016

Taylor Scholarship

Awarded to a History major based on outstanding academic achievement and other qualities such as fine character, good fellowship, leadership, and service to the Wesleyan community.

  • Matthew Shelley-Reade 2017

Thorndike Prize

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

  • Mattie Alison Denzer-King 2016

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.

  • Prachiti Bhatawdekar GRAD

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.

  • Nathan Harris 2016
  • Elissa Palmer 2016

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.

  • Adam Rochelle 2017
  • Paula Tartell 2018

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.

  • Julia Yu 2017

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.

  • Michael Ortiz 2017
  • Grace Wong 2018

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.

  • Miriam Kudler-Flam 2016

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.

  • Joseph Natter 2017
  • Lydia Tierney 2016
  • Varun Ursekar 2017
  • Daniel Weiss 2017

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.

  • Maimouna Siby 2016

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.

  • Aarit Ahuja 2016
  • Bridget Doherty 2016
  • Sheri Reichelson 2016
  • Emily Sullivan 2016
  • Claire Wright 2016

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.

  • Noah Hamlish 2016
  • Chando Mapoma 2016

Wesleyan Animal Studies Prize

Awarded for the best thesis or senior essay on a subject in Animal Studies.

  • Emily Pfoutz 2016

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.

  • Malcolm Phillips 2019

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.

  • Sophie Chabon 2017

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.

  • Fred Ayres 2017
  • Aidan Martinez 2017

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.

  • Sofia Goode 2017
  • Adam Greene 2016
  • Abhisit Jiranaphawiboon 2016
  • Sean Mihaljevich 2016
  • Anh Tuan Nguyen Viet 2016
  • Angela Reiss 2016
  • Alisse Singer 2016
  • Nancy Tang 2017
  • Matthew Weinsier 2016

White Fellowship Government

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

  • Maya Berkman 2016
  • Emily Greenspan 2016
  • Jiyoung Han 2016
  • Jessica Katzen 2016
  • Lang Wen Amanda Li 2016
  • Tess Litchman 2016
  • Colfax Phillips 2016

White Fellowship History

Awarded for excellence in history.

  • Sonya Levine 2017
  • Sarah Renjilian 2017

M.G. White Prize

Awarded annually for the best thesis submitted in American Studies.

  • Tahreem Khalied 2016

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.

  • Anh Tuan Nguyen Viet 2016

Winchester Fellowship

Established in 1938, in memory of Professor Caleb Thomas Winchester, by his widow. For graduating seniors and recent graduates, to support graduate work in literature or writing.

  • Piers Gelly 2013
  • Jesse Bordwin 2010
  • Aron Chilewich 2014
  • Kate Gibbel 2015
  • Jessica Jordan 2013
  • Cade Leebron 2014
  • Cornelia Channing 2016

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.

  • Hein Jeong 2016