2018 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.

  • Lila Levinson 2018
  • Carli Poisson 2018

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.

  • Nicole Boyd 2018
  • Lily Landau 2018
  • Charlotte Pitts 2018

American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry

Awarded for excellence in analytical chemistry.

  • Maya Marshall 2018

American Chemical Society Connecticut Valley Section Award

Awarded for outstanding achievement to a graduating chemistry major.

  • Aaron Stone 2018

American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Inorganic Chemistry

Awarded to an undergraduate student in inorganic chemistry to recognize achievement and encourage further study in the field.

  • David Solti 2018

American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Organic Chemistry

Awarded to a senior who has displayed a significant aptitude for organic chemistry

  • Theo Prachyathipsakul 2019

American Institute of Chemists Award

Awarded for outstanding achievement to a graduating chemistry major.

  • Ann-Dorie Webley 2018

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biochemistry Honor Society

Awarded to exceptional 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.

  • Will Barr 2018
  • Emily Kessler 2018
  • Christine Little 2018
  • Julie McDonald 2018
  • Rubye Peyser 2018
  • Alexander Shames 2018

American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Physical Chemistry

Awarded in recognition of outstanding achievement by undergraduate students in physical chemistry, and to encourage further pursuits in the field.

  • Zain Khanna 2019

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.

  • Jess Tran 2021
Baldwin Fellowship

Established in 1952 by family and friends of Horace Reed Baldwin of the 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.
  • Victoria Borges King
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.

  • Darci Collins 2018

Wesleyan Black Alumni Council Prize

  • Samantha Stephen 2019
  • Kolbi Bradley 2020

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.

  • Anna Apostolidis-Morefield 2019
  • Jack Guenther 2018

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.

  • Natalie Bina 2018
  • Fiona McLeod 2019

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.

  • Joanna Korpanty 2018

Bridge Builder Award

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

  • George Perez 2020
  • Wes Reads / WesMath

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.

  • Scott Walkinshaw 2020

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.

  • Elias Camacho 2018
  • Kiana Dawkins 2018
  • Allison Gross 2018
  • Claudia Kahindi 2018

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.

  • Dache Rogers 2018

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.

  • Tara Joy 2020

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.

  • Andrew Ling 2018

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.

  • Shardonay Pagett 2018

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.

  • Christian Black 2018
  • Aryeh Lieber 2018
  • Louisa Winchell 2018

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.

  • Ruby Lanet 2018

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.

  • Steven Kidder 2018

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.

  • Caridad Cruz 2021

Citation of Citizenship in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

The Citation for Citizenship recognizes those students studying mathematics or computer science, whose contributions both aid the educational mission of the department and foster a sense of community that encourages and supports all members of the department.

  • Nate Gillman 2020

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.

  • Lily Segal 2018

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.

  • David Machado 2018
  • Mackenzie Mitchell 2020

Cole Prize

Established through the gift of George Henry Walker, Class of 1881, in the memory of Charles Edward Cole. Awarded to the first-year student who shows the greatest ability in fiction or nonfiction writing.

  • Gem McHaffey 2021
  • Olivia Siegal 2021

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.

  • Alice Markham-Cantor 2018
  • Zenzele Price 2018

CRC Award for Outstanding First-Year Chemistry Students

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

  • Benjamin Bushnell 2021
  • Kate Luo 2021

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.

  • Talia Kaplan 2018

Dorchester Prize

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

  • Yao Ong 2018

W.E.B. DuBois Prize

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

  • Hailey Broughton-Jones 2018

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.

  • Mihai Olteanu 2018

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.

  • Emily Furnival 2018
  • Gabriel Kachuck 2018

Exceptional Program of the Year Award

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

  • TEDxWesleyanU

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.

  • Katherine Kaus GRAD
  • Alexander Shames 2018

First-Year Leadership Award

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

  • Alejandra Villamares 2021

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.

  • Tsun Lok Kwan 2021
  • Benjamin McDonald 2021
  • Ver?nica Socorro 2021

Freeman Prize

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

  • Sasha Guo 2018

French Government Teaching Assistantship

  • Clara Siegmund 2018

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.

  • Sabrina Rueber 2018
  • Juntai Shen 2018

Friends of the Wesleyan Library Undergraduate Research Prize

Established in 2017 to recognize research projects (besides honors theses) in any field that demonstrate outstanding and creative use of Wesleyan's library collections and resources.

  • Kevin Liu 2020
  • Elinor Weissberg 2020

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.

  • Isabella Banks 2015
  • William Tyner 2013

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.

  • Emma Fuller-Monk 2018
  • Paige Hutton 2018

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.

  • Carter Deane 2018

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.

  • Alicia Strong 2018

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.

  • Leland Meade-Miller 2018

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.

  • Natalie May GRAD

Graham Prize

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

  • Nicole DelGaudio 2018
  • Max Distler 2018
  • Maya Lopez-Ichikawa 2018
  • Christine Mathew 2018
  • Aaron Stone 2018

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.

  • Keith Christen 2018

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.

  • Sahil Singhvi 2018

Sarah Hannah Poetry Prize

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

  • Liv Ryan 2019

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.

  • Cody Hecht 2018
  • Emily Kessler 2018
  • Christine Little 2018
  • Julie McDonald 2018
  • Alexander Shames 2018

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.

  • Christina Glusac 2018

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.

  • Shardonay Pagett 2018
  • Leticia Rosario 2019
  • Naomi Williams 2019

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.

  • Ryan Dobrin 2018
  • Rose Beth Johnson-Brown 2018
  • Yichen Lou 2018

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.

  • Julia Lejeune 2018
  • Ariana Lewis 2018

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.

  • Adriane Tharp 2019
  • Charles Wudd 2018

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.

  • Catherine Kiall 2019

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.

  • Owen Christoph 2018
  • Seamus Edson 2018
  • Xhonia Robinson 2018

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.

  • Sharine Foo 2021
  • Do Hyeok Jeon 2021
  1. 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.

  • Guilu Murphy 2018

Barry Kiefer Prize--Biology

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

  • Jyoti Gupta GRAD
  • Christos Suriano GRAD

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.

  • Josh Davidoff 2018

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.

  • Chidubem Okechi 2018
  • Jonah Wolfson 2017
  • Jianna Xiong 2018

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.

  • Nila Ravi 2018

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.

  • Marcos E. Plaud Rivera 2018
  • Anna Savage 2018

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.

  • Mikaela Carty 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.

  • Emmet Daly 2018

Littell Prize

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

  • Aylin Garcia Soto 2018

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.

  • Casey Herrick 2016

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.

  • Sonya Bessalel 2018
  • Nicole Boyd 2018
  • Isabella Corletto 2018
  • Kelsey Gordon 2018
  • Martha Mastrianni 2018
  • Ari Polgar 2018

Martius Yellow Award

Awarded for excellence in organic synthesis.

  • Jaquelin Aroujo 2019

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.

  • Madeline Bledsoe 2018
  • Steven Chen 2018

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.

  • Janie Mortell 2018

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.

  • Caroline Kravitz 2019

Meyer Prize

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

  • Steven Chen 2018
  • Ilana Newman 2018

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.

  • James Reston 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.

  • Kaiyana Cervera 2019

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.

  • Xavier Cornejo 2018

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.

  • Rachel Alpert 2018
  • Connor Cobb 2018
  • Joel Michaels 2018

Peter Morgenstern-Clarren Social Justice Award

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

  • Jordan Bonner 2019
  • Lloyd Jones
  • Francisco Acosta

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.

  • African Students Association

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.

  • Elizabeth Cettina 2018
  • Jed Munson 2019
  • Emma Raddatz 2018

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.

  • Joao Pedro Pereira-Webber 2018

NNK Award

Awarded for the best screenplay for an undergraduate film.

  • Matthew Kleppner 2018

Carol B. Ohmann Memorial Prize

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

  • Torie Davids 2018
  • Dylan Heuer 2018
  • Caroline Liu 2018

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.

  • Talia Cohen 2019
  • Kazumi Fish 2019
  • Jennifer Gagne 2019
  • Nell Highleyman 2019
  • Sarah Jin 2021
  • Onitra Johnson 2019
  • Mickey Kieu 2019
  • Jaime Marvin 2019
  • Jed Munson 2019
  • George Perez 2020
  • Lyra Walsh Fuchs 2019

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.

  • Ryan Dobrin 2018
  • Katherine Paterson 2018
  • Jose Luis Sanchez 2018

Outstanding Collaboration Award

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

  • Caribbean Students Association

Parker Prize

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

  • Maya Bernstein-Schalet 2020
  • Yael Krifcher 2019

Peirce Prize

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

  • Max Distler 2018

Peterson Fellowship

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

  • Joy Cote GRAD
  • Katherine Kaus GRAD
  • Zeliang Zheng 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.

  • Stephen McCarthy 2018
  • Aqila Putri 2018
  • Sarah Xu 2018

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.

  • Samuel Anschell 2019
  • Tyler Barnes 2018
  • Natacha Bielikoff 2018
  • Aaron Cheung 2019
  • Ryan Chiu 2018
  • So Young Chung 2018
  • Tiffany Coons 2018
  • Theresa Counts 2018
  • Morgan Findley 2018
  • Heropeia Hu 2019
  • Tina Jiang 2019
  • Will Levinson 2019
  • Kai Luokai Lu 2018
  • Arjun Nayar 2019
  • Aqila Putri 2018
  • Amy Ren 2019
  • Marcia Saetang 2019
  • Christina Sickinger 2018
  • Simran Singh 2018
  • Sahil Singhvi 2018
  • Michael Smith 2018
  • Samantha Smith 2020
  • Dominic Vazquez 2019
  • Gabriel Weinreb 2018
  • Catherine Xi 2021
  • Jianna Xiong 2018
  • Michael Yablong 2019
  • Isaac Yassky 2018
  • Jason Yu 2018
  • Zoe Zhao 2020
  • Qiyuan Zheng 2020

Gwen Livingston Pokora Prize

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

  • Benjamin Draghi 2018
  • John Gilmore 2018

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.

  • Sophia Shoulson 2018

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.

  • Daniel Robertson 2018

Sophie and Anne Reed Prize

Established 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.

  • Mina Khan 2020
  • Amy Mattox 2019
  • Katherine Paterson 2018

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.

  • SeArah Smith 2021

Rice Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a senior.

  • Rocco Davino 2018

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.

  • Celeste Barnaby 2018

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.

  • Theresa Counts 2018
  • Sasha Guo 2018
  • Devonaire Ortiz 2018
  • AJ Wilson 2018

Robertson Prize

Awarded for excellence in mathematics to a sophomore.

  • Nate Gillman 2020

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.

  • Jack Guenther 2018
  • Mihai Olteanu 2018

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.

  • Noah Dirks 2018

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.

  • Amira Ottley 2018
  • Juntai Shen 2018

Rulewater Prize

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

  • Sharron Emmons GLSP

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.

  • Will Barr 2018
  • Ethan Chupp 2018
  • Isabelle Csete 2018
  • Adi Gandhi 2018
  • Nicki Gershberg 2018
  • Simone Harrison 2018
  • Sohil Khanna 2018
  • Rubye Peyser 2018
  • Dylan Schick 2018
  • Spencer Tang 2018
  • Elliot Williams 2018

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.

  • Julia Gyourko 2021
  • Jesse Simmons 2021

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.

  • Theo Prachyathipsakul 2019

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.

  • Fritzgi Dessources 2018
  • Aryeh Lieber 2018
  • Clara Siegmund 2018

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.

  • Christina Sickinger 2018

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.

  • Rachel Alpert 2018

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.

  • Matteo Heilbrun 2018

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.

  • Jinpeng Fan 2020

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.

  • Sasha Guo 2018

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.

  • Isabella Corletto 2018

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.

  • James Reston 2018

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.

  • Maya Marshall 2018
  • Martin Rubin 2018

Mary and John Sease Prize

Awarded for outstanding work in environmental science.

  • Eliza Carter 2018
  • Natasha Nurjadin 2018

Senior Legacy Award

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

  • Shardonay Pagett 2018

Frances M. Sheng Prize

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

  • Jonathan Canfield 2020
  • Elijah Jimenez 2018

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.

  • Jackson Barnett 2018

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.

  • Ariel Fromm 2021

Rae Shortt Prize

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

  • Yulia Alexandr 2019

Samuel C. Silipo Prize

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

  • Isabelle Csete 2018
  • David Lopez-Wade 2018

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.

  • Jeanette Thornton 2018

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.

  • Amelie Clemot 2018

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.

  • Melisa Olgun 2020

Best Honors Thesis in Sociology Award

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.

  • Owen Christoph 2018
  • Natalie Bina 2018
  • Illan Ireland 2017
  • Colby Sangree 2018
  • Emily Monforte 2018
  • Regan Stewart 2018
  • Lily Watson 2020

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.

  • Adriane Tharp 2019

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.

  • Katharine Barnes 2018

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.

  • Irvine Peck's-Agaya 2018

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.

  • Kai Entrepreneurship Club

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.

  • Azher Jaweed 2019

Thorndike Prize

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

  • Xandra Ellin 2018
  • Ilaria Schlitz 2018

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.

  • Andrea Lee 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.

  • Will Richmond 2018
  • Chi Chi Wakabayashi 2018

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.

  • Yujie Cai 2020

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.

  • Yonggyun Kim 2019
  • Asa Mazor-Freedman 2019
  • Austin Pope 2019

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.

  • Brynn Assignon 2020
  • Kalee Kennedy 2019

Tololyan 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 Tololyan. The award funds the summer research of a junior with the best proposal for a thesis on the study of diasporic or transnational issues.

  • Alexandra Gomberoff 2019
  • Jed Munson 2019

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.

  • William Moss 2018
  • John Vansant 2018

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.

  • Dominic Vazquez 2019

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.

  • Tristan Ang Tze Heng 2019
  • Zhi Ming Gan 2018
  • Rami Hamati 2019
  • Andrea Masi-Phelps 2018
  • Daniel Robertson 2018
  • Amber Storey 2018

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.

  • Ainsley Eakins 2018

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.

  • Martin Rubin 2018
  • Rebecca Shteyn 2018
  • Han Tay 2019

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.

  • Sara Philippe 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.

  • Corinne Noonan 2018

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.

  • Azher Jaweed 2019

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.

  • Taylor Chin 2018
  • Theresa Counts 2018
  • Chad Malinowski 2019
  • Christina Sickinger 2018
  • Gabriel Weinreb 2018
  • Jianna Xiong 2018
  • Sarah Xu 2018

White Fellowship--Government

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

  • Dakota An 2018
  • Catherine Cervone 2018
  • Steven Chen 2018
  • Peter Dunphy 2018
  • Carly King 2018
  • Molly Schiff 2018
  • Grace Wong 2018

White Fellowship--History

Awarded for excellence in history.

  • Sara Philippe 2019
  • Lindsay Zelson 2019

M.G. White Prize

Awarded annually for the best thesis submitted in American Studies.

  • Benjamin Velaise 2018

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.

  • Sarah Xu 2018

Winchester Fellowship

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

  • Julia Conrad 2014
  • Markeisha Hill 2016
  • Pauline Torregrosa 2015
  • Davis Knittle 2011
  • Jennifer Minnen GRAD
  • Peter Myers 2013
  • Kate Thorpe GLSP
  • Rachel Warner GRAD
  • Emily Weitzman 2014
  • Andrew Zingg 2013

Winchester ENGL 201 Essay Prize

In honor of Caleb Thomas Winchester, this prize is awarded to the best essay written in a section of ENGL 201 in the preceding calendar year.

  • Elena Harriss-Bauer 2019
  • Sophie Hayssen 2019
  • Erin Hussey 2020
  • Liv Ryan 2019
  • Miriam Zenilman 2020

Winchester First-Year Essay Prize

In honor of Caleb Thomas Winchester, this prize is awarded to the best scholarly essay written by a first-year student in any English Department course in the preceding calendar year.

  • Nick Cantin 2021
  • Ava Grob 2020
  • Erin Hussey 2020

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.

  • Rebecca Zegans 2018