Join us in celebrating the 2025 Honors Awards recipients!
The University Award for Excellence in Advising: Matthew Stoneking
The University Award for Excellence in Advising recognizes a faculty member whose exceptional dedication to academic advising stands out. Students submit nominations for this honor.
- Matthew Stoneking - Professor Matthew Stoneking exemplifies the best of academic advising through his holistic, student-centered approach. He goes beyond course selection to engage with students about their full Lawrence experience, asking about extracurriculars, music ensembles, off-campus study, and overall well-being. Over the years, Professor Stoneking has guided physics majors in their professional pursuits – recommending key courses, encouraging applications to summer research programs, and directing students to other experts in the field. Thoughtful, honest, and deeply committed, Professor Stoneking’s impact resonates well beyond the classroom.
The John J. and Graciela Alfieri Tuition Scholarship in Spanish: Aubrey Elizabeth Clarke
The John J. and Graciela Alfieri Tuition Scholarship in Spanish acknowledges exceptional achievement in the study of Spanish language and literature.
- Aubrey Elizabeth Clarke - Aubrey Clarke has demonstrated a profound understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures and advanced knowledge of Hispanic linguistics. Bree shares her academic passion generously, and her charisma enriches the Lawrence community and augurs a bright future.
The Charles F.L. Anderson Opera Performance Scholarship: Isabella Ann Cerdan
Established in 2018 through the generous gifts of Mary Anderson, The Charles F.L. Anderson Opera Performance Scholarship memorializes her late husband, Charles, a lifelong opera enthusiast. Their connection to Lawrence University began at Björklunden, where they enjoyed seminars and performances near their vacation home. Following Charles' passing on January 16, 2018, Mary's attendance at a Lawrence opera performance inspired her to create this scholarship in his name, recognizing his appreciation for the Conservatory of Music's exceptional opera program.
- Isabella Ann Cerdan - Isabella Cerdan has not only a full, beautiful voice, but she also is a detailed and expressive performer in recital and on stage. She shines in every role and brings a professional demeanor and preparation into every rehearsal and performance. Always kind and curious, she inspires those around her as much as she is inspired by them.
The Mrs. H. K. Babcock Award: Nicole Schultz
The Mrs. H. K. Babcock Award honors a member of the faculty, staff, administration, trustees, alumni, or a friend of the College who positively impacts the campus community by actively involving and interacting with students.
- Nicole Schultz - Nicole is receiving the Mrs. H.K. Babcock Award, which is an award nominated by and voted on by the student body for extraordinary service to the students. One nomination read, "Nicole is extraordinarily dedicated to her work, frequently performing helpful extra tasks around Co-op's house that she is not required to do. She makes a genuine effort to get to know the people for whom she cleans, and she remembers and asks about important events in their lives. Not only that, but she advocates passionately for students' quality of living, noticing problems in our house and working to resolve them. She takes her job seriously, but in a very loving and kind way." Another stated, "From fraternities to residence halls to group homes, Nicole's dedication and joy are obvious, and she has had an incredible impact on not just my life, but many, many others. Her attention to detail, support, and advocacy for students has been felt every day that I have lived in this house." Nicole's bubbly and caring demeanor have had an incredible effect on the Lawrence Community, and she deserves to be recognized for this dedication.
The Paul V. Bacon Prize in Latin: Finn Mercury Thornton
The Paul V. Bacon Prize in Latin, established through a donation by a Boston businessman in 1916, recognizes a junior or senior student excelling in the study of Latin.
- Finn Mercury Thornton - In the field of Latin literature, Finn achieves a wonderful trifecta: an excellent command of the language, elegant and impeccable delivery, and an outstanding capacity for thoughtful, incisive literary analysis with a particular sensitivity to questions of imagery and characterization.
The Louis C. Baker Memorial Award in Modern Languages: Aubrey Elizabeth Clarke
The Louis C. Baker Memorial Award in Modern Languages, established by colleagues, former students, and friends of Dr. Baker (who taught German and French at Lawrence from 1916–47), is given annually to the junior major in a modern foreign language demonstrating outstanding achievement.
- Aubrey Elizabeth Clarke - Aubrey Clarke is a distinguished student of French, Spanish, and linguistics who has demonstrated exceptional intellectual maturity. Her dedication to modern languages and linguistics is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for her peers. Admired by all, Bree embodies the pursuit of excellence, lifting those around her with grace and wisdom. Her outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment make her a most deserving recipient of the Louis C. Baker Memorial Award.
The Baker Prize in Modern Languages: Mattigan Leigh Haller
The Baker Prize in Modern Languages is awarded to the senior major in a modern foreign language who achieves the highest scholastic average both overall and within their modern language studies compared to other majors in that field.
- Mattigan Leigh Haller - Mattie Haller is an extraordinary student—intelligent, tenacious, community-minded, and full of life. She has completed three majors at Lawrence and shadowed anesthesiologists in several Mexican hospitals. Mattie is an athlete, a scholar, and an aspiring bilingual medical practitioner who welcomes every challenge with a steel will and a warm smile.
The Ruth Bateman Award: Mallory Joyce Meyer
The Ruth Bateman Award recognizes an athlete for outstanding leadership, academic achievement, and athletic ability.
- Mallory Joyce Meyer - Mallory Meyer, Battle Ground, Washington, is a 2025 All-Midwest Conference selection in women’s basketball and the sixth player in Lawrence women’s basketball history to score 1,000 points. She is a member of the Academic All-Midwest Conference team, a College Sports Communicators Academic All-District selection and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society.
The Andrew C. Berry - James C. Stewart Prize in Mathematics: Joseph Kraemer Carpenter
The Andrew C. Berry - James C. Stewart Prize in Mathematics recognizes an outstanding graduating senior in mathematics.
- Joseph Kraemer Carpenter - Joseph Carpenter, a double major in mathematics and physics, has shown tremendous aptitude and understanding across a wide range of courses at Lawrence. For his senior experience in mathematics, he drew on his strong physical and mathematical understanding to explore the beautiful symmetries underlying the theory of quantum mechanics.
The J. Bruce Brackenridge Prize in Physics: Nguyen Thi Quynh Nga, David Allen Smith
The J. Bruce Brackenridge Prize in Physics recognizes an outstanding junior or senior physics major with a strong academic record and significant potential for future work in physics.
- Nguyen Thi Quynh Nga - Nguyen Thi Quynh Nga is a third year physics major with a near perfect record in physics and mathematics courses, and has taken (and plans to take) every available course the department offers. Her work is consistently of the highest quality and demonstrates a keen mind already prepared for a bright future in physics.
- David Allen Smith - David Smith is a third year physics major with a near perfect record in physics and mathematics courses, and has taken (and plans to take) every available course the department offers. He has complemented his class work with off-campus research, and he has demonstrated an excellence that will serve him well as a professional physicist.
The Philip and Rosemary Wiley Bradley Achievement Scholarship in Economics: Jayden Cole Jensen, Dieter Gonzalo Treneman Navarro, Binh Gia Vu, Jacob Yang
Established in 1994 by Dr. and Mrs. Bradley (both class of 1935), The Philip and Rosemary Wiley Bradley Achievement Scholarship in Economics encourages talented and industrious students to major in economics.
- Jayden Cole Jensen - Jayden Jensen, from Marengo, Illinois, has been a top student in all of his economics courses. He is completing a double major in Economics and Psychology, along with a minor in Data Science. He provides help for his classmates working as a tutor. He is also the captain of the Lawrence Men's hockey team.
- Dieter Gonzalo Treneman Navarro - Hailing from Lima, Peru, Dieter Gonzalo Treneman Navarro is double-majoring in Economics and Mathematics with a minor in Data Science. Despite his extremely demanding academic schedule, Dieter also found time to prepare for and pass the first four Society of Actuaries exams — in Probability, Financial Mathematics, Statistics for Risk Modeling, and Fundamentals of Actuarial Mathematics — and is currently awaiting results on exams five and six, all while interning at Unum. This summer, he will continue building his impressive career with a prestigious internship at Reinsurance Group of America. Dieter's stellar performance in the economics major reflects not just a sharp mind, but a genuine enthusiasm for learning and challenging himself. We feel lucky that he has contributed his talents and energy to the economics program at Lawrence.
- Binh Gia Vu - Binh Vu (Hanoi, Vietnam) is an excellent student with a deep passion for learning. As a double major in Economics and Mathematics with a minor in Psychology, Binh pushes himself to gain a deep understanding of a wide range of challenging topics. In class, Binh asks thoughtful questions while contributing to a joyful classroom atmosphere through his laughter and joy for learning. He is an enthusiastic supporter of the major, including through tutoring across a number of classes.
- Jacob Yang - Jacob Yang is making the most of his Lawrence years by double majoring in Economics and in Business & Entrepreneurship, while also pursuing a minor in Statistics and Data Science. He puts the analytical and business tools he masters in class to excellent use in his passion for sports analytics. In class, he asks incisive and insightful questions. Outside class, he is a regular at Business & Entrepreneurship Center events, where he also participated in LaunchLU.
The Dave Burrows Award for Senior Experience in Psychology: Savannah Elizabeth Mujkanovic
Established in 2019 to honor the insightful leadership of retiring Provost, Professor of Psychology, and Director of Inclusive Pedagogy Dr. David Burrows, The Dave Burrows Award for Senior Experience in Psychology recognizes students whose senior capstone projects demonstrate scholarly acumen and the creative application of research to significant psychological questions.
- Savannah Elizabeth Mujkanovic - Savannah is a psychology major who is dedicated to suicide prevention. She conducts research in the Child and Adolescent Research in Emotion Lab at Lawrence and works on a community crisis team. Her senior project involved testing an objective, computerized task within a community sample of adolescents to examine whether it can aid in identifying those at risk for suicide. Savannah plans to continue with a research career in this area and will apply to graduate school for clinical psychology.
The Iden Charles Champion Cup: Mattigan Leigh Haller
The Iden Charles Champion Cup recognizes excellence in scholarship, athletic ability, college spirit, and loyalty.
- Mattigan Leigh Haller - Mattigan Haller, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a three-time All-Midwest Conference selection in softball. A National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar-Athlete, Haller also is a member of the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District team. She also is a member of the Academic All-Midwest Conference team and Co-President of Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society.
The Iden Charles Champion Award in Commerce & Industry: Cole-Thomas Johnson, Irene Mary Yank
Established in 1921 by Iden Charles Champion (Class of 1919) to support higher education, The Iden Charles Champion Award in Commerce & Industry is presented annually to a student in the Department of Economics.
- Cole-Thomas Johnson - In his paper The Effect of Renewable Energy Policy on Electricity Prices Cole-Thomas Johnson uses state-level data between 2000 and 2023 to examine how the adoption of renewable energy policies impact electricity prices. He finds that consumer electricity prices are typically higher following the adoption of renewable energy policy implementation.
- Irene Mary Yank - Irene Yank (Franklin, Wisconsin) has been reliably excellent through her Lawence years, and her paper Powering Up a Greener Grid: The Impacts of Renewables on Electricity Grid Reliability, is no exception. She gathered and wrangled state-level US data to assess whether states sacrificed energy reliability when they added greener but more intermittent sources. To the contrary, she finds that states with a more diverse electricity portfolios have more stable and reliable power systems.
The American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Organic Chemistry: Navraj Singh
The American Chemical Society Undergraduate Award in Organic Chemistry honors outstanding senior chemistry majors specializing in organic chemistry.
- Navraj Singh
The Debbie Roman Prize in Chemistry: Ashlyn DeAnn Lewis
The Debbie Roman Prize in Chemistry recognizes a junior or senior major whose laboratory work best demonstrates competence, resourcefulness, efficiency, dedication, and goodwill.
- Ashlyn DeAnn Lewis - For many years, Ashlyn has served as an amazing student laboratory teaching assistant and open tutor for Chemistry. Always prepared and "on the ball," her proactive and approachable nature supported countless students in their learning both in lab and in class.
The First-Year Chemistry Achievement Award: Nathan Jon Zumbrunnen
The First-Year Chemistry Achievement Award recognizes outstanding performance in introductory chemistry courses.
- Nathan Jon Zumbrunnen - Nathan Zumbrunnen’s energetic, inclusive and inquisitive participation in the general chemistry courses shows great promise as a first-year student. He was a leader in the class and lab settings, bringing groups together. As other students consistently turned to him with questions, Nathan always took the time to support others as they needed while also making insightful connections between the experimental concepts and classroom topics.
The Senior Chemistry Award: Marissa R. Polzin
Sponsored by the Northeast Wisconsin Section of the American Chemical Society, The Senior Chemistry Award recognizes an outstanding senior chemistry major.
- Marissa R. Polzin - Marissa is an exemplary liberal arts chemist, as she has followed her values and interests across disciplines to serve science and the world. She has been an excellent student in each of the chemical subdisciplines and has been a constant role model and support for fellow Lawrentians, sharing her experience through her work as a teaching assistant in lab and lecture, through individual tutoring, and organizing open tutoring hours in the science learning commons. We are eager to see where Marissa’s next steps take her!
The Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry: Sydney Sarah Fontaine
The Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry recognizes a junior major for outstanding performance in analytical chemistry.
- Sydney Sarah Fontaine - Sydney Fontaine is being recognized for her exceptional attention to detail and tireless work ethic—hallmarks of a truly great analytical chemist. Whether calibrating instruments or interpreting data, Sydney approaches every task with precision and care, proving she’s truly in her element.
The F. Theodore Cloak Award in Theatre: Nina Catherine Broberg, Davíd Alejandro Ciotti Hernández
Inspired by the department's founder, the F. Theodore Cloak Award in Theatre recognizes a young theatre maker who applies a theoretically and historically informed understanding of dramatic literature to their skillful and nuanced contributions to our productions.
- Nina Catherine Broberg - Nina Broberg excelled at a high level in the areas of acting, playwrighting, dance, and theatre production. Always seeking new challenges, Nina modelled for her peers how to forge opportunities for growth. Nina will be an able ambassador of our department’s ethos by proving herself a true theatre maker.
- Davíd Alejandro Ciotti Hernández - Davíd Ciotti Hernández consistently demonstrated a deep understanding that the collaborative process begins with intentional community building. In on-stage performance, stage management, collaboration with peers, and in teacher preparation Davíd’s strives toward excellence while embracing the joy of working as a team. We’re honored to know that Davíd will take the lessons learned a Lawrence to his students as a future educator and stage director.
The Donald Knuth Prize in Computer Science: Minjun Lee, Koren Shayne
The Donald Knuth Prize in Computer Science is awarded annually to the outstanding graduating senior majoring in Mathematics-Computer Science.
- Minjun Lee - Minjun Lee is notable for a strong work ethic and enthusiasm: his capstone project is commendable for its depth, completeness, and contribution to the broader Lawrence community.
- Koren Shayne - Koren Shayne has consistently demonstrated a deep curiosity and a drive to learn, and has excelled in courses across the computer science curriculum.
The Margaret Gary Daniels Keyboard Performance Award: Qiaochuhan Li, Nhi Hoang Quach
Established by Helen G. Daniels (Milwaukee-Downer College) in honor and memory of her mother, Margaret Daniels (Milwaukee-Downer music diploma, 1918; BA, 1919), this award recognizes a student who excels in keyboard performance.
- Qiaochuhan Li - Qiaochuhan Li, a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance with a Collaborative Emphasis and minor in Music Theory, and a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and East Asian Studies, is an energetic, charismatic performer whose performances burst with character and personality. Awarded Honorable Mention at the 2025 Thursday Musical Young Artist and 2022 China Lanzhou International Piano Festival Open Competitions, she was also a finalist in the 2022 Schubert Club Scholarship Competition and finalist in Lawrence’s annual Concerto Competition last year. An active chamber musician, Qiaochuhan has been studying and performing major collaborative works in the piano/string/woodwind duo, trio, and quartet repertoire with great success, and she champions works by underrepresented composers and those utilizing innovative, extended techniques.
- Nhi Hoang Quach - Nhi Hoang Quach, a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics is a brilliant pianist who delivers performances of stunning virtuosity. A prize-winner in international music competitions in Italy, Austria, France, Spain, Korea, Indonesia, and the United States, Nhi and has performed internationally throughout America, Asia, and Europe. State winner of the 2023 Music Teachers National Association Senior Piano Competition, she represented Wisconsin in MTNA’s East Central Division, and was also a finalist in Lawrence’s annual Concerto Competition last year. As an Accompanying Fellow, she serves as pianist for Cantala.
The Clyde Duncan Prize: Kai Dylan Frueh, Helen Y. Panshin
This award commemorates the life and career of Clyde Duncan, professor of music at Lawrence from 1947-84. An accomplished performing artist and musicologist, Professor Duncan played a major role in creating bridges between the college and the conservatory of music. The award goes to an upperclass student with broad interests and abilities that combine music with literature, aesthetics, and culture
- Kai Dylan Frueh - Kai Frueh receives the Duncan Award because of his consistently thoughtful engagement, attention to detail, and creative thinking in ethno/musicology courses, and in recognition of his exceptional interdisciplinary ethnographic research he conducted on living composers who incorporate bird sounds into their works in surprisingly varied ways. Kai’s work raises questions as to the boundaries between sound and song, and human and non-human composition.
- Helen Y. Panshin - Helen Panshin receives the Duncan Award in recognition of her marvelous musick(ology)ing in a great number of musicology courses, as well as her weaving of musicological practices into the fabric of her intellectual, artistic, social, and political life. She possesses a remarkably strong, clear voice as an academic writer, and her musical performance as a keyboardist is deeply informed by her musicological interests. An avid concertgoer and wide reader of music criticism and cultural and political writings, Helen consistently draws illuminating and thought-provoking connections among elements of her musicology coursework and to other things she has read, listened to, or performed, often bringing attention to new sources of information and ideas.
The Miriam Clapp Duncan Award in Organ and Harpsichord Literature: Helen Y. Panshin
Established in 1985 upon the retirement of Miriam Clapp Duncan, an accomplished organist and Lawrence faculty member since 1949, this award recognizes a student who excels in organ and/or harpsichord performance.
- Helen Y. Panshin - Helen has embraced the study of organ and harpsichord with great enthusiasm. She exemplifies the legacy and life of Miriam Clapp Duncan by challenging the conventional male-dominated aspects of performance and literature and her curiosity about music and the world will carry her far in her chosen disciplines.
The Herman Erb Prize in German: Alexander Patrick Stanger
Established in 1912 by Herman Erb, a prominent German-born Appleton banker who immigrated at 16, this award recognizes upperclass students based on a submitted original German composition or scholarly essay.
- Alexander Patrick Stanger - Alex Stanger’s interdisciplinary and highly original German Studies Senior Capstone, Krise oder Kreise? Die Geschichte von Lawrence University und ihre Rolle in der Kolonialisierung von Wisconsin stands at the intersection of German Studies and Indigenous Studies and situates the founding of Lawrence University within the broader context of the colonization of Wisconsin. The work is thoroughly researched, intelligently argued, and makes a significant contribution to deepening our knowledge of Lawrence’s history. Congratulations, Alex!
The Faculty Convocation Award: Allison M. M. Fleshman
The Faculty Convocation Award annually honors a faculty member selected by the President upon nomination by the Committee on Public Occasions. Nominees submit a Convocation address proposal, with selection criteria including proposal quality and demonstrated professional excellence.
- Allison M. M. Fleshman - Allison M. M. Fleshman, associate professor of Chemistry, for the proposal The Science of Paint Drying: It's more fascinating than it sounds.
The John Herbert and Mamie E. Farley Prize in Philosophy: Daryian Lamar Matthews, Silas Martin O'Connell
This award was established from the estate of Mrs. Farley and named also for her husband (Class of 1896), teacher of philosophy and psychology at Lawrence from 1904–40. It is awarded to a senior student excelling in the study of philosophy.
- Daryian Lamar Matthews - Daryian approaches philosophical discussions with genuine curiosity and an interest in understanding competing perspectives. His intellectual talent and thoughtful manner are matched by an impressive dedication to his studies. Daryian’s capstone project, on the use of deception in police interrogations, displayed both his rich appreciation for how issues under theoretical discussion have practical import, and his skill at evaluating and constructing arguments. We thank Daryian for contributing so much to the life of our philosophical community and are excited to see the great things he does in the future.
- Silas Martin O'Connell - In discussion Silas is fully stocked with ideas and ready for a high-quality philosophical tussle. For his classes Silas produces exceptionally creative, rigorous written work—such as his senior capstone which offers a defense of truth from fiction in a Platonic framework. To have Silas in the major was to have a major all the more vibrant, owing to his dedication to bringing students together around philosophy outside of the classroom. We thank Silas for his contributions to the philosophy community at Lawrence and look forward to hearing about his future accomplishments.
The Fraternity Scholarship Cup: Beta Theta Pi
The Fraternity Scholarship Cup is awarded to the fraternity achieving the highest scholarship rating for the preceding three academic terms.
- Beta Theta Pi
The First-Year Studies Teaching Award : Sarah Gamalinda
The First-Year Studies Teaching Award recognizes the best FYS faculty member based on nominations from First-Year Studies students.
- Sarah Gamalinda - For the creative energy she brings to the classroom and her dedication to the First-Year Studies program.
The First-Year Studies Writing Prize: Leigh Nhi Anderson
The First-Year Studies Writing Prize recognizes a student whose submitted paper demonstrates outstanding critical analysis and thoughtful articulation. The winning paper is selected by a committee of First-Year Studies instructors.
- Leigh Nhi Anderson - Leigh's work offers a compelling and skillful analysis of how Rush and Smith in Rising and Blood Dazzler amplify the often-overlooked personal experiences of individuals affected by environmental disasters, thereby fostering a fuller understanding of these catastrophic events, their lasting consequences, and the critical need for change.
The Outstanding First-Year Athletic Award: Jahlan-tai Paul, Margaret Jane Hahnke, Mila Westra
The Outstanding First-Year Athletic Award recognizes two first-year student-athletes who have made the most significant contributions to Lawrence athletics.
- Jahlan-tai Paul - Jahlan Paul, North Lauderdale, Florida, was honored by multiple organizations following his first season of football. A cornerback, Paul was the 2024 Midwest Conference Newcomer of the Year and a first-team all-conference selection. He was the only first-year player chosen for the D3football.com All-Region 5 team and was selected for the D3 Football All-Freshman Team by The Third Division. Paul also led all of NCAA Division III in interceptions and passes defensed per game.
- Margaret Jane Hahnke - Margaret Hahnke, Appleton, Wisconsin, is an outside hitter on the volleyball team, Hahnke was the Midwest Conference Newcomer of the Year and a first-team all-conference selection. Hahnke led the Midwest Conference at 4.32 kills per set and broke the school match record with 34 kills against Rockford University.
- Mila Westra - Mila Westra, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, was the Midwest Conference Newcomer of the Year and an all-conference honoree in cross country after finishing third at the league championships. Westra also earned All-Midwest Conference honors during the indoor track season in the mile and 800 meters and broke the Lawrence record in the 800.
The Dorrit F. Friedlander Scholarship: Madeline Jitka Bublik, Jane Berit Partsch
Established in 1993 by colleagues and students upon the retirement of Professor of German Dorrit F. Friedlander, after 42 years of distinguished teaching at Lawrence University, this scholarship assists German major students studying in Germany.
- Madeline Jitka Bublik - Maddie Bublik stands out for her academic ambition and commitment to intercultural communication. She is a double major in German Studies and Physics and has been preparing to study abroad since middle school. A thoughtful student and integral part of our German Studies community, she exemplifies the spirit of the Friedlander Award. Herzlichen Glückwunsch und viel Spaß in Berlin, Maddie!
- Jane Berit Partsch - Jane Partsch has earned the Friedlander Award because of her commitment to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for learning. Her interest in German is both a scholarly pursuit and a personal one, as it allows her to connect more deeply with her German family. Jane brings a consistently positive attitude to her studies, engaging with openness and generosity, inquisitiveness, and a seriousness of purpose that elevates every learning environment of which she is part. Herzlichen Glückwunsch und viel Spaß in Freiburg, Jane!
The Marlys and Peter Fritzell Writing Prize: Billy Greene
Established in 2023 by Harold and Mary Donn Jordan to honor their mentors at Lawrence University, Marlys and Peter Fritzell, The Marlys and Peter Fritzell Writing Prize recognizes the best analytical essay and/or creative writing related to nature or the environment. Peter Fritzell was a beloved English professor at Lawrence from 1966-2003, a recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award (1988), and the Patricia Hamar Boldt Professor of Liberal Studies (1989-2003). His scholarship includes the influential book Nature Writing and America and a highly acclaimed essay on Aldo Leopold's A Sand County Almanac.
- Billy Greene - Hope Until Motioned Otherwise: Marling, Man, and Trailheads is a tramp through the expertly rendered landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand, as well as a journey through music, yearning, and relationship. The essay is inventively sectioned off by “trail markers,” each one a signpost to the narrator’s memories of a place and a love.
The Christine Gerdes Award in Anthropology: Truett Koden William Marr
Established by Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Gerdes in memory of their daughter, Christine, '74. It is awarded to an outstanding junior major who excels in the study of anthropology.
- Truett Koden William Marr - TK is an excellent and engaged student who is highly dedicated to expanding our understandings of Anthropology and Geosciences and who embraces the holism of the field of Anthropology. TK has conducted research on how natural faults and soil quality impacted settlement over 10,000 years in the Near East, ethnographic work on classroom values amongst high school teachers in an Appleton area High School and is involved in health and nutrition research for Appleton area children. His outstanding performance in the classroom, and dedication to further learning outside of it, are exemplary and make him a highly deserving recipient of the Gerdes Award.
The Bertrand A. Goldgar Fellowship: Adrian Joseph Susic
The Bertrand A. Goldgar Fellowship, established in 2009 by students, family, and friends in memory of Professor Bertrand A. Goldgar—Lawrence University's longest-serving full-time faculty member—offers a current Lawrence student, ideally an English major or minor, the opportunity to spend productive and inspiring time in London, following in the footsteps of literary giants like Swift, Addison, Fielding, and Goldgar himself.
- Adrian Joseph Susic - Adrian will be using the fellowship to investigate the relationship between the poetry of John Keats and the cultural meanings of “nature” in the Romantic period.
The Richard A. Harrison Award for Research in The Humanities and Social Sciences: Kaitlin Susann Buelow
The Richard A. Harrison Award for Research in The Humanities and Social Sciences was established to honor the memory of Richard A. Harrison, who served as dean of the faculty at Lawrence University from 1992 to 1997.
- Kaitlin Susann Buelow - Kaitlin's project analyzes how user-generated memes within German-speaking social media communities perpetuate antimigratory prejudice during the "Migrationskrise" (migrant crisis) in Germany and the EU. The research aims to fill a gap in digital humanities by critically examining Germanophone meme culture and how online humor intersects with propaganda campaigns and contributes to real-world violence against migrants.
The Hicks Prize in Fiction: Henry Sandberg Hale
Established by John Hicks, an editor of the Oshkosh Daily Northwestern, U.S. diplomat, and Lawrence trustee (1911–16), The Hicks Prize in Fiction is awarded for the best submitted short story.
- Henry Sandberg Hale - New Life is a story of growing up and of growing out of one's former attachments. Told with rich, evocative details and true-to-life dialogue, the characters reveal their deeper inner lives to the readers in a short span of time.
The Hicks Prize in Poetry: Lauren Elizabeth Dahl
The Hicks Prize in Poetry, established by John Hicks (an editor of the Oshkosh Daily Northwestern, a U.S. diplomat, and a Lawrence trustee from 1911-1916), is given for the best submitted poem.
- Lauren Elizabeth Dahl - An accomplished group of poems about the tribulations of childhood within an increasingly troubled world. The speaker of these poems asks, again and again, "Can I make her little world a bit brighter / even if it hurts at first?" These poems do precisely that.
The Paul C. Hollinger Award in Music History: Nina Marie Schifano
Established by friends and family to honor Professor Paul C. Hollinger's 38 years of service as a professor of music history, this award recognizes excellence in the field.
- Nina Marie Schifano - The Hollinger Award goes to Nina Schifano for outstanding work in each of her musicology courses. From researching the complicated history of Playford dances and of dance in Jane Austen adaptations, to crafting a detailed and culturally informed transcription of a contemporary sitar fusion recording, to writing a narrative on the meditative preparations an imagined historical violinist might undertake as preparation to informed by a wealth of resources and carnal musicological methodologies, Nina brings a depth of sophistication and multimodal creativity to all of her musicological explorations.
The Ralph V. Landis Award: Zachary Arron Leslie
Established by the Lettermen of Lawrence in honor of Dr. Ralph V. Landis, who served as physician to Lawrence students from 1926 to 1978, this award recognizes outstanding contributions to Lawrence athletics by a senior athlete.
- Zachary Arron Leslie - Zach Leslie, Chicago, Illinois, has distinguished himself on the baseball field and as a member of the Lawrence community. A first baseman for the Vikings, Leslie is a two-time All-Midwest Conference selection and a starter on Lawrence’s 2022 and 2024 conference championship teams. A College Sports Communicators Academic All-District selection, Leslie also is a member of the Academic All-Midwest Conference team and of Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society. Leslie also has served as a key member of the university’s Athletic Media Relations student staff.
The Lantern Community Service Award: Leo Levi Schmidt
The Lantern Community Service Award commemorates the Lantern service organization, the precursor to the current Volunteer and Community Service Center, and recognizes a student who has significantly contributed to the growth and well-being of people, animals, and/or communities through service or social activism.
- Leo Levi Schmidt - I am proud to nominate Leo Schmidt for the Lantern Community Service Award. Leo has demonstrated exceptional dedication to community service through his involvement with the VITAL tutoring program, where he has contributed over 47 hours of volunteer work this academic year—more than any other Lawrence student. His consistent commitment to supporting youth in the Appleton area exemplifies the spirit of this award, as he has actively furthered the growth and well-being of others through meaningful, hands-on service.
The Latin League Of Wisconsin Colleges Award: Lucy Jean Sweetland
The Latin League Of Wisconsin Colleges Award recognizes first-year and sophomore students at Lawrence University who demonstrate superior achievement in Latin during their first year of study.
- Lucy Jean Sweetland - Lucy demonstrates a fine command of the forms and syntax of the Latin language, and her translations are graceful and accurate. The Classics department offers her this award with the hope that she will continue to pursue her interests in Latin prose and Roman politics.
The LaVahn Maesch Prize in Organ: Victor Alejandro Sandberg
Established in honor of LaVahn Maesch, ’25, Dean of the Conservatory from 1955-70, and awarded to an organ student who best exemplifies the high standard of technical competence and artistic expression.
- Victor Alejandro Sandberg - Victor has proven himself as a capable and dedicated organist in a very short amount of time, going from a beginner to being fully engaged with the music and technique of playing. He is also a cheerful and enthusiastic ambassador for the instrument among his friends and colleagues.
The Jessie Mae Pate Mcconagha Prize: Alexander Zaid Alden
Established in memory of Professor Jessie Mae Pate McConagha, who taught French at Lawrence in the 1920s and was a student of European painting with broader interests in the Appleton visual arts community, this award recognizes interdisciplinary scholarship in art history within the humanities.
- Alexander Zaid Alden - Alex Alden is awarded the Jessie Mae Pate McConagha Prize for his interdisciplinary research on a once-lost 18th century portrait that was falsely reproduced online as a portrayal of the composer Johann Pachelbel. Working at the intersections of Art History, Musicology, and History, Alex explores questions of genius, representation, and digital reproduction. He makes the compelling argument that while the portrait doesn’t depict Pachelbel, the many reproduced digital versions of the portrait have come to depict Canon in D, his most widely known composition. Alex is a clear and careful writer, attentive to nuance and detail.
The William A. Mcconagha Prize: Andrew James Larson, Michael Voss Thorson, Irene Mary Yank
Established by Margaret McConagha Faulkner and Alan C. McConagha in memory of their father, William A. McConagha, an economics professor at Lawrence University in Appleton from 1926 to 1956, this award recognizes the student who demonstrates the greatest excellence in the study of economics.
- Andrew James Larson - Andrew Larson, from Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, has been a top student in all of his economics courses. Andrew has also contributed to the department as a tutor, providing excellent help for his classmates. He is completing a major in Economics, along with a minor in Data Science and concentration in Innovation & Entrepreneurship. He has also been a highly decorated player on the tennis team for four years. After graduation he will be working as an Associate Demand Planner for Uline.
- Michael Voss Thorson - Michael Thorson, from Mcfarland, Wisconsin, has been a top student in all of his economics courses. Michael has also contributed to the department as a tutor, providing excellent help for his classmates. He is completing a major in Economics, along with a minor in Data Science and a minor in Music. He also competes on the swimming team, with his name appearing on the list of Lawrence's top 10 performances for five different events. After graduation he will be working as a data analyst for Electronic Theatre Controls.
- Irene Mary Yank - Irene Yank (Franklin, Wisconsin) is an Economics major with minors in Data Science and Mathematics. She has developed superior and versatile quantitative skills, which she has deployed to win the Lawrence Datathon and to create an unreasonably effective Excel-based Wordle-guessing tool. She also further developed her summer LURF renewable-energy analysis into a prize-winning paper. Irene is a tireless tutor for the Economics department, assisting with nearly every course the department offers. In her spare time, she runs with the fast crowd on the Lawrence Track & Field team—running, hurdling, and triple-jumping her way through the winter and spring seasons.
The Mielke Family Prize: Lydia Rose Tomandl
Established in 2023 to honor the Mielke Family—longtime supporters of early childhood programs, educational opportunities, and benefactors of Lawrence University's elementary teacher certification program—this prize recognizes a student who shows promise for teaching at the elementary level.
- Lydia Rose Tomandl - Lydia Tomandl brings enthusiasm and delight to elementary teaching, crafting engaging lessons on interesting topics. She will have a positive impact on young learners, bringing them joy in learning.
The James Ming Prize in Composition: Alexander Erich Poplawski
Established upon the retirement of James Ming, a professor of music theory and composition at the Lawrence Conservatory from 1944 to 1982, this award honors outstanding creative talent and achievement in music composition.
- Alexander Erich Poplawski - Alex Poplawski, from Boulder, Colorado, composes ambitious, imaginative music with a diligent dedication to his art. Irish folk music influences much of his work. Alex’s exuberant Fdiddling includes original tunes in the styles of Irish air, jig, and reel. His artfully constructed Fading Canvasses juxtaposes a gentle folk melody with an ambient harmonic texture. This April, Alex was a featured composer on the Colorado College Band Concert, receiving a world premiere of his composition Voyager Crosses the Heliopause for concert band and organ. Alex is co-president of The Composers of Lawrence University (CLU).
The Mita Sen Award for Societal Impact At Lawrence University: Annika Gruber
Established in 2012 by Lawrence University alumni Abir Sen ’97 (economics, magna cum laude, Harvard MBA) and Crystal Cullerton-Sen ’97 (psychology, cum laude, PhD from Minnesota), in honor of Abir’s mother, Mita Sen, this award annually recognizes Lawrence students whose work demonstrates the potential for positive societal impact.
- Annika Gruber - I am honored to nominate Annika for the Mita Sen Award for Societal Impact. Through her sustained leadership with the Vermont Student Anti-Racism Network (VSARN)—the only student-run nonprofit of its kind in the state—Annika has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to equity, education, and social justice. Her work leading initiatives like the Book Project, which brings age-appropriate conversations about race and identity into K–12 classrooms, has directly impacted students across Vermont and fostered meaningful community dialogue. This summer, she plans to expand VSARN’s reach by developing statewide projects that promote anti-racism, youth advocacy, and access to banned books. Annika's dedication to building inclusive communities and her passion for societal change reflect the very heart of this award’s mission. Her work not only uplifts others—it also inspires the kind of activism and empathy our world urgently needs.
The Mortar Board Honorary Award: Claudena Skran
The Mortar Board Honorary Award recognizes a faculty member or administrator who best embodies the spirit of scholarship, leadership recognition and encouragement, and service—the foundational ideals of Mortar Board.
- Claudena Skran - Professor Skran embodies the ideals of the Mortar Board Faculty Award through her exceptional dedication to leadership, scholarship, and service. As Professor of Government and Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program, she inspires students to pursue these qualities through her engaging courses, innovative field experience trips to West Africa and the Caribbean, and her leadership of the impactful KidsGive practicum. Through KidsGive, LU students have raised funds for scholarships, sports days, and eye testing, and have made tangible differences by helping to build a water well and a junior secondary school for girls in Sierra Leone. Her scholarly work on refugees and humanitarian issues, coupled with her passion for facilitating meaningful global learning experiences through numerous trips abroad, further demonstrates her profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students and the wider world.
The Edwin H. Olson Award in Human Services: Daryian Lamar Matthews, Sophia Louise Schultz
Established by students, friends, and colleagues to honor Professor Edwin H. Olson upon his 1989 retirement from Lawrence University, this award recognizes the top senior psychology major intending to pursue a career in a psychology-related helping profession.
- Daryian Lamar Matthews - Daryian Matthews is a double major in psychology and philosophy. He has been an exceptional leader in the psychology department, particularly in his role as the president of the Lawrence United Psychology Association. In addition to his dedication to promoting professional development and social activities in the psychology department, he has conducted research on mental health screening in the Child and Adolescent Research in Emotion Lab. Daryian will continue that work through a full-time position at Samaritan Counseling, after which he plans to pursue a career in forensic psychology.
- Sophia Louise Schultz - Sophia Shultz, a psychology major, is highly engaged in the department through serving as the Secretary of the Lawrence United Psychology Association and contributing to multiple research laboratories, where she has taken on novel projects like creating inclusive questionnaires for health research and evaluating storybooks for teaching children about Autism. She is also involved in community outreach such as helping to implement mindfulness training in classrooms and providing neurodiversity support and training for children and educators. Sophia plans to pursue a PhD in School Psychology to promote the mental health and emotional well-being of neurodivergent youth.
The Peabody Prize in Latin: Taryn Parker Mangin
Established in 1910 by Emma Peabody Harper in memory of her father, George F. Peabody, The Peabody Prize in Latin recognizes the sophomore who has achieved the highest proficiency in college-level Latin.
- Taryn Parker Mangin - Taryn applies a writer's eye and a keen aesthetic sensitivity to their thoughtful, insightful analyses of the depiction of personality and humanity in Latin prose and poetry, from the assertive maid Photis in Apuleius' Metamorphoses to the complexities of the relationship of Dido and Aeneas in Vergil's Aeneid.
The Maurice Cunningham Phi Beta Kappa Prize: Listed
The Maurice Cunningham Phi Beta Kappa Prize is awarded to the third-year B.A. or fourth-year B.A./B.Mus. double-degree student with the highest grade-point average.
- Sydney Sarah Fontaine
- Kayla Joy Jarppi
- Nguyen Thi Quynh Nga
- Tristan D. Zook
The Phi Beta Kappa Downer First-Year Prize: Listed
The Phi Beta Kappa Downer First-Year Prize recognizes outstanding academic achievement by a first-year Bachelor of Arts student.
- Kara Marie Bellg
- Emerson V Busse
- Blaize Phoenix Fernandez
- Sophia Marina Gaus
- Nicholas Frank Gouriotis
- Katherine K. Lund
- Tahlia Lillian Moe
- Elizabeth Clare Pantoga-Montoto
- Jane Berit Partsch
- Emma Caroline Podpora
- Sydney Davis Reed
- Kyle Cedric Roberts
- Isabella Grace Robertson
- Sofia Kathryn Sandberg
- Ellyn Dee Suske-Funk
- Jenna Marie Swanlund
- Elizabeth Mary VanKirk
- Delia Ann Waltenberry
The Pi Kappa Lambda Composition Award: Megan LaBelle Smith
The Pi Kappa Lambda Composition Award recognizes exceptional originality and skill in music composition.
- Megan LaBelle Smith - Megan LaBelle Smith, a junior from Agawam, Massachusetts, is a composer of outstanding creative talent and accomplishment. She is a skilled, imaginative creator of vocal and instrumental music whose compositions show a high level of both craft and artistry. This spring Lawrence’s Cantala will perform the world premiere of Megan’s I Saw Above a World of Sky, a composition for treble choir that sets texts by the American poet Sara Teasdale.
The Pi Kappa Lambda Music Education Teaching Award: Cynthia Katherine Kaiser, Emma R. Nolte
The Pi Kappa Lambda Music Education Teaching Award recognizes individuals for excellence in music education, demonstrated through outstanding abilities in teaching, performance, composition, and scholarship at Lawrence University.
- Cynthia Katherine Kaiser - (Instrumental/General): This award honors one Lawrence University student who has demonstrated exemplary music teaching in both elementary general music and secondary instrumental settings. Her creative ability to maintain high levels of artistic engagement while simultaneously stretching the thinking and imagination of all students was consistently displayed during her student teaching experience. Cindy’s strong integrity and intuitive leadership in the classroom inspires hope for the future in the field of music education.
- Emma R. Nolte - (Choral/General): This award honors on Lawrence University student who has demonstrated exemplary music teaching in both elementary general music and secondary choral settings. Her thoughtful student-centered approach, which included unwavering patience and joy, was consistently modeled during her student teaching experience. Her strong musicianship and belief in the unlimited potential of everyone in her classroom motivates others to give their best while actively contributing to the musical community together.
The Pi Kappa Lambda First-Year Prize: Allison Mae Lewis, Michaya S. Schmandt, Abigail Kathryn Sliwinski
The Pi Kappa Lambda First-Year Prize recognizes outstanding scholarly achievement among first-year students at the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music.
- Allison Mae Lewis
- Michaya S. Schmandt
- Abigail Kathryn Sliwinski
The Pi Kappa Lambda Jazz Composition Award: Eli Cooper Wikre
The Pi Kappa Lambda Jazz Composition Award recognizes exceptional originality and skill in jazz music composition.
- Eli Cooper Wikre - Eli Cooper Wikre, Minneapolis, MN, a junior, has demonstrated outstanding talent, dedication and potential in the field of jazz composition and arranging. As a talented jazz composer and jazz trumpet player, Eli is pursuing degrees in Environmental Science and Music. He has created multiple pieces for his jazz chamber group, big band and jazz combos, and is especially interested in contemporary jazz arranging techniques.
The Political Science Journal Award: Quynh Anh Cao Le
The Political Science Journal Award recognizes an outstanding undergraduate student in the Political Science Department.
- Quynh Anh Cao Le - Quynh Anh (Cailey) Cao Le, from Hanoi, Vietnam, for exceptional performance in the classroom and exemplary intellectual accomplishment beyond. During the last year, Cailey demonstrated particular initiative, ambition, and skill in independent research, and completed an internship on the topics of conflict mediation and peacebuilding with Swisspeace in Basel, Switzerland.
The Charles E. Pond Award: Samuel Paul Brewer, Edythmae Marie Frodl
The Charles E. Pond Award recognizes two senior athletes who demonstrate all-around athletic ability in two or more sports, along with outstanding sportsmanship, school spirit, and scholarship.
- Samuel Paul Brewer - Sam Brewer, St. Cloud, Minnesota, was a two-time All-Midwest Conference performer in cross country and a key performer on the Vikings’ 2021 conference championship team. Also a member of the Academic All-Midwest Conference team, Brewer was a multiple placewinner in track and field at the Midwest Conference’s indoor and outdoor championships during his career.
- Edythmae Marie Frodl - Edythmae Frodl, Fort Collins, Colorado, is one of just seven women in Midwest Conference history to be a four-time all-conference performer in cross country. Also an Academic All-Midwest Conference selection, she was a key member of the Vikings’ 2021 and 2024 conference championship teams. A multiple placewinner in track and field at the Midwest Conference’s indoor and outdoor championships, she holds the school record indoors for 5,000 meters. Frodl is a United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association All-Academic Athlete and a member of the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District team.
The Mojmir Povolny Prize in Government: Louisa May Olsen, Matthew R. Roh
Established to honor Professor Mojmir Povolny upon his retirement from the government faculty at Lawrence University (1958–89), this award recognizes an outstanding senior government student.
- Louisa May Olsen - Louisa Olsen is an intellectually curious student in Government who is unafraid to engage in wide-ranging conversations about policy and politics — whether the topic is federal environmental regulation, commercial advertising of kids' cereal, or predicting political outcomes in 1960s Vietnam. She helps bring other students into the conversation and is careful to consider others' viewpoints. Olsen sets a high bar both in discussion and in scholarship, and she encourages others to bring their best as well.
- Matthew R. Roh - Matthew Roh is an outstanding senior who has excelled in both his International Relations and History majors. As a scholar, Matthew is known for his rigorous analysis, skillfully written essays, and extensive research. Matthew is a frequent contributor to class discussions, sharing his knowledge on topics as diverse as the diplomatic history of Europe, US nuclear policy, and contemporary African conflicts.
The Presser Foundation Music Scholarship: Reese Pike
The Presser Foundation Music Scholarship is awarded to the most outstanding music major entering their senior year at the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music.
- Reese Pike - Reese Pike has achieved a high level of musical and academic excellence through her involvement in both classical and jazz piano. She co-founded the Jazz and Gender Equity Initiative, an organization whose aim is to create a more equitable environment within the world of jazz for all students. This work extends to the broader community, where Reese has presented educational workshops at the public library and has given a workshop on the blues to over 400 middle school students. She is a frequent collaborator on student recitals, teaches piano at at the Lawrence Community Music School and is a writing tutor.
The William F. Raney Prize in History: Alexandra Shane Jimerson-McKinnies
The William F. Raney Prize in History, established and named for this Rhodes Scholar who was a professor of history at Lawrence University from 1920 to 1955, is awarded to the senior history major with the highest GPA in the major.
- Alexandra Shane Jimerson-McKinnies - The 2025 Raney Prize goes to Aleksandra for her impressive academic achievement in history courses, as well as her timely and courageous research on interwar censorship in Boston and Berlin, which speaks to her hope that in telling this history, we may not repeat it.
The Marion Read Award: Sydney C. Seeley
The Marion Read Award recognizes outstanding contributions to Lawrence athletics.
- Sydney C. Seeley - Sydney Seeley, Prescott, Wisconsin, was a key member in the first group of players competing for the Lawrence women’s hockey team and did exemplary work in the Department of Athletics. A goaltender on the hockey team, Seeley set school records for saves in a game and a career, and she also holds the school mark for career goals against average. An American Hockey Coaches Association All-American Scholar, Seeley also is a member of the Academic All-Northern Collegiate Hockey Association team and Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society. Seeley also has been a critical contributor for the Department of Athletics’ social media accounts.
The Gervais E. and Mary K. Reed Award: Isabel Noelani Dorn
The Gervais E. and Mary K. Reed Award recognizes a senior, chosen by their classmates, who best exemplifies academic achievement, service to others, and a commitment to the common good demonstrated through extracurricular activities on or off campus.
- Isabel Noelani Dorn - With three majors, Isabel has achieved excellence while uplifting her community with commitment and compassion. She has been active in LUCC, serving as a class representative, VP, and President, and the CODA/SAASHA/Sustainability/Student Welfare Committees. She has contributed to groups focused on empowering marginalized students. She is the President of Pan-Asian Organization and an executive board member of Beta Psi Nu, as well as on the board of Lawrence’s queer student organization. She works as a Community Advisor, at the D&IC, and is involved with The Lawrentian. Nonprofit work beyond Lawrence includes being a college applications coach for high school students.
The Professor Gervais E. Reed Award for Off-Campus Study in Francophone Countries: Blaize Phoenix Fernandez
Established in memory of Professor Gervais E. Reed, a 32-year French department faculty member and Chevalier dans l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques, this award supports students excelling in French studies to participate in off-campus programs in Francophone countries.
- Blaize Phoenix Fernandez - Blaize Fernandez embodies the qualities in the very best of language and cultural studies students: passion for the language, a sharp critical mind, intellectual flexibility, and cultural openness. He is an ideal recipient of the Reed Award and we are confident he will take full advantage of his experience in Paris.
The Alexander J. Reid Prize in English: Miranda Ruth Lile
Bequeathed in 1911 by Alexander Reid, an editor of the Appleton Post, U.S. diplomat, and Lawrence trustee (1895–97), The Alexander J. Reid Prize in English is awarded to the student who writes the best sketch.
- Miranda Ruth Lile - Like the trains it depicts, delivering children as well as mail, my boxcar body spans America, across time and space. Its weave of discovery is crafty, subtle, and surprising.
The Estelle Reid Prize in Library Science: Annabelle Grace Northrup
The Estelle Reid Prize in Library Science, created from her estate in 1961, is awarded to a student who intends to pursue graduate-level education in library science. Given the Reid family's connection to the Appleton Post, this award might reflect a historical appreciation for information and knowledge dissemination in our community.
- Annabelle Grace Northrup - Annabelle was selected because of her experience volunteering and working in libraries and her clear sense of purpose related to becoming a librarian working in youth services and community engagement. The awards committee further appreciated her commitment to making libraries an inclusive and welcoming space for all. She'll be an asset to the library community.
The Elizabeth Richardson Award—Art History: Honor Magers Winter
The Elizabeth Richardson Award—Art History honors the memory of Elizabeth Richardson, a 1940 graduate of Milwaukee-Downer College, who served with the Red Cross in France during World War II and died in a plane crash. Established by her friends and family, this award recognizes students at Lawrence University who demonstrate excellence in the study of art history.
- Honor Magers Winter - Honor Winter distinguishes herself in Art History courses through her thoughtful observations on works of art and her attentive readings of art historical scholarship and theory. She approaches both curatorial and written research with independence and curiosity that demonstrates an understanding of the historical and conceptual complexity of art.
The Elizabeth Richardson Award—Studio Art: Mariana Zendejas
Established by friends and family in memory of Milwaukee-Downer graduate Elizabeth Richardson (M-D’40), who served with the Red Cross in France during WWII and tragically died in a plane crash, this award recognizes students excelling in studio art at Lawrence University.
- Mariana Zendejas - Mariana Zendejas, in recognition of her extraordinary creative activity in sculpture. Mariana’s profound investigation of form in art exemplifies what it means to fully explore artistic possibilities with dedication, resolve, and commitment in pursuit of excellence.
The Sumner Richman Student Research Award in Biology: Abigail L. Herrick, Greta Pearl Thoresen
The Sumner Richman Student Research Award in Biology was created to honor Sumner Richman, who dedicated 38 years (1957-1995) to teaching and research in biology. The award recognizes a student demonstrating strong potential in biological research.
- Abigail L. Herrick - Abby Herrick, from Pleasant Prairie, WI is creatively combining her passions for marine biology and clarinet performance. She has been researching changes in coral and algae communities on the reefs of Bonaire, analyzing data from the Biology Marine Term program for her Senior Experience project. Her findings will help ecologists and managers understand recent changes in the reef environments. To extend the reach of her studies, she commissioned a new clarinet solo piece for her Senior Recital that “uses sound to evoke an emotional response to listeners so that they feel more connected to the issue at hand and feel more inclined to become a part of the conversations surrounding the topic.”
- Greta Pearl Thoresen - Greta Thoresen (Sheboygan, WI) gained a variety of research experiences, first as a summer LU Research Fellow followed by a summer REU at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) in Gothic, CO where she conducted field experiments exploring the interaction network between pollinators, nectar robbers, microbes, and the hummingbird-pollinated wildflower Ipomopsis aggregata. Using Fluorescent quantum dots to tediously follow the movement of pollen grains between donor flowers and recipients across treatments, her experiment tested the effects of yeast-inoculated nectar and artificial nectar robbing on the male fitness of the plant. After collecting data at RMBL, Greta devoted a significant amount of time continuing to work on the project back at Lawrence, demonstrating a high level of independence and proficiency in analyzing the complex dataset and bringing the project to competition.
The Patricia Ritter Prize in Chinese Culture: Aurora Swanson-Linville
Established to honor Patricia Ritter for her work in fostering academic exchange between China and the United States, this award recognizes exceptional achievement by a Lawrence University undergraduate in the study of Chinese culture.
- Aurora Swanson-Linville - Aurora showed great interest in and sound understanding of the Chinese culture. This award recognizes her work in the Chinese language, contemporary Chinese literature and cinema, as well as social studies of gender equality in Taiwan.
The Patricia Ritter Prize in Chinese Language: Matthew Joseph Carlson
The Patricia Ritter Prize in Chinese Language recognizes exceptional achievement by a Lawrence University undergraduate in their study of the Chinese language.
- Matthew Joseph Carlson - Matthew's dedication and talent for language studies are demonstrated convincingly in his excellent performance in all his Chinese language courses. His understanding of various topics of the Chinese linguistic studies is equally impressive.
The Howard and Helen Russell Award for Excellence in Biological Research: Reeshi Bhattacharjee
The Howard and Helen Russell Award for Excellence in Biological Research, established by family and friends, underscores the Russell family’s strong support for liberal arts education and the university. Howard and Helen Russell are the grandparents of esteemed Lawrence biology professors Beth De Stasio ’83 (also the Raymond H. Herzog Professor of Science) and Bart De Stasio ’82. This year, the award is given in honor of Roger Schoenfeld, Beth De Stasio’s father, and recognizes excellence in biological research at the college.
- Reeshi Bhattacharjee - Reeshi Bhattacharjee, Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a thoughtful and creative scientist who pays great attention to detail. He has mastered of a diverse array of experimental techniques and has achieved a deep understanding of the theory behind his laboratory work. Reeshi adeptly transfers knowledge from courses to his intellectual pursuits and informs his research with critical reading of the primary literature. Over the past 2 years, Reeshi has made numerous contributions toward the development of prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression systems for the human ribonuclease inhibitor protein, which will serve as valuable tools in the study of how human cells cope with stress.
The Louis Henry Schutte Memorial Prize in English: Lauren Elizabeth Dahl, Elizabeth Lamoureux Rienstra
The Louis Henry Schutte Memorial Prize in English is awarded to the senior English major at Lawrence University who has achieved the highest grade point average in all courses completed during the six terms immediately preceding their final term. The award was established by Dr. William M. Schutte, a former English professor at Lawrence (1960-84), in memory of his father, Louis Henry Schutte.
- Lauren Elizabeth Dahl - For being the senior Creative Writing major with the highest grade point average for all courses completed in the six terms immediately preceding their final term at Lawrence.
- Elizabeth Lamoureux Rienstra - For being the senior English major with the highest grade point average for all courses completed in the six terms immediately preceding their final term at Lawrence.
The Senior Art Award—Art History: Emma Elizabeth Jacobs
The Senior Art Award—Art History recognizes graduating seniors at Lawrence University who have demonstrated excellence in the study of art history.
- Emma Elizabeth Jacobs - Emma Jacobs, for her dedication to and thorough research of Lockwood de Forest’s Teakwood room, which has offered a fresh, more complex, understanding of this significant space on Lawrence’s campus. Her ability to locate, organize, and interpret archival documents and databases demonstrates thoroughness, patience, and diligence. Her work in the classroom and as a writing tutor shows a similar preparedness and organization. Her ability to ask smart questions, tackle difficult theoretical readings, and apply these ideas to the analysis of artworks is exemplary.
The Senior Art Award—Studio Art: Cristofer Eduardo Aguilar
The Senior Art Award—Studio Art recognizes graduating seniors at Lawrence University who have demonstrated excellence in the practice of studio art.
- Cristofer Eduardo Aguilar - Cristofer Aguilar (studio art, ’25) in recognition of their dedicated studio practice and ability to simplify complex narratives into an inviting story focusing on the human condition. Cristofer makes informed decisions that thoughtfully incorporate a variety of media, compelling the viewer to investigate each image.
The Sorority Cup: Kappa Alpha Theta
The Sorority Cup is awarded to the sorority with the highest average scholarship rating for the three terms immediately preceding the award.
- Kappa Alpha Theta
The Senior Prize for Statistics & Data Science: Shane Patrick Foley, Irene Mary Yank
The Senior Prize for Statistics & Data Science is awarded to a graduating senior who has demonstrated both a strong interest and excellence in the study of statistics and data science.
- Shane Patrick Foley - Shane Foley, a mathematics major on the statistics track, has consistently demonstrated strong performances across a breadth of applied, computational, and theoretical courses. His senior experience project integrated all these ideas where he used innovative statistical learning techniques to study baseball catchers’ statistics and their impact on the game.
- Irene Mary Yank - Irene Yank, a statistics and data science minor, has excelled in her coursework and projects. She has demonstrated a strong understanding of the mathematical foundations of statistics, and has used statistical models in creative and insightful ways, often related to her economics major.
The Warren Hurst Stevens Prize: Quynh Anh Cao Le, Miranda Rosalinde Kirsche-Follmann
Established in 1926 by David Harrison Stevens (Class of 1906) in memory of his brother, Warren, The Warren Hurst Stevens Prize is awarded to a junior who demonstrates high scholarship and active involvement in college affairs. David Stevens also served as a trustee and received an honorary degree from Lawrence.
- Quynh Anh Cao Le - Quynh provides service to the campus community as a head writing tutor and is a leader in campus organizations. Quynh has excelled academically and as a researcher.
- Miranda Rosalinde Kirsche-Follmann - Miranda is a leader in her many extracurricular activities and in her majors. She also serves as a writing tutor and consistently excels in academics.
The Student Life Award: Diana Butler Van Gilder
Established in 1978 and sponsored by the Lawrence University Alumni Association, The Student Life Award recognizes a graduating senior (Class of 2025) for outstanding leadership and service to the Lawrence community.
- Diana Butler Van Gilder - Diana is a great example of what Student Life represents. Within her role as co-president of SOUP (Student Organization for University Programming), she has helped to create intentional programming and worked with her co-president to lead their board. She has also served as the Student Welfare Committee Secretary, and as a Committee on Volunteering and Engagement CCE Representative. Diana also volunteers her time at Building for Kids and was previously the Arts and Education Program Coordinator for the CCE. She is also a member of the Senior Committee engaging with a team of peers to plan Senior events.
The Tank-Palmquist-Ross Award in Geology: Lauren Muriel Coon, Truett Koden William Marr
The Tank-Palmquist-Ross Award in Geology recognizes an outstanding geology student in the junior class, honoring Professors Ronald W. Tank, John C. Palmquist, and Theodore W. Ross.
- Lauren Muriel Coon - Lauren is a driven hard rock geoscientist whose passion for structural geology and deep Earth processes sets her apart; she seeks to unravel the mechanics of upper mantle movement at convergent boundaries through seismology and geodesy. Her curiosity about the tectonic forces shaping our planet, coupled with her thoughtful, research-oriented mindset, reflects the intellectual maturity and ambition deserving of recognition as the best rising senior in geosciences.
- Truett Koden William Marr - TK stands out for his integrative, story-driven approach to geoscience—reconstructing ancient landscapes in Northern Wisconsin using a rare blend of geochemical, geophysical, geomorphological, and cultural methods, including traditional knowledge from the Bad River Band. His work exemplifies both scientific rigor and a deep respect for the land’s human and geological history, reflecting a curiosity and creativity that breathes life into earth systems and elevates our understanding of them.
The Jean Wiley Thickens Prize: Josephine Anne Eager
The Jean Wiley Thickens Prize is awarded to the Lawrence University student who, through their demonstrated interest, academic achievement, and natural aptitude, shows the greatest potential for a successful career in teaching at the high school level. The award was established in 1988 by Laura Thickens Halford (Class of 1938) in honor of her mother and Dr. Roger Nichols.
- Josephine Anne Eager - Josie Eager brings joy to the classroom while she helps students gain insights into math topics and build their confidence as budding mathematicians.
The Tichenor Prize in English: Em Sweeney
Donated in 1888 by Charles Orlando Tichenor (Lawrence Class of 1862), a Civil War attorney, The Tichenor Prize in English is awarded to the student who writes the best critical essay about a work of English literature.
- Em Sweeney - In Spaces In-Between: The Emergence of the Utopian Imagination in Moshin Hamid’s Exit West, Em Sweeney explores the role that technology plays in the utopian imagination of Hamid’s novel, thinking about how the magical doorways which create utopian possibilities for migration are modeled on the cellphones which also play an important role in the novel. Thinking about the dangers as well as the benefits of this utopian reimagining of migration, the essay offers a thoughtful interpretation of Hamid’s novel.
The E. Graham Waring Prize in Religious Studies: Hayden Michael Young
Established in 1987 by colleagues and friends to honor the retirement of Professor E. Graham Waring, a longtime member of the religious studies faculty, this prize is awarded to the student who authors the best paper in a religious studies course during the academic year.
- Hayden Michael Young - Hayden Young examined the philosophical positions of Soren Kierkegaard's pseudonymous authors. Kierkegaard's work is notably difficult to interpret because of the interplay of competing voices, and this paper is a model of careful reading and subtle interpretation.
The Edwin N. and Ruth Z. West Scholarship: Adler E. Tyburski, Zoey Ziegler
The Edwin N. and Ruth Z. West Scholarship is a competitive, merit-based award granted to continuing students with exceptional promise, beginning in their sophomore year.
- Adler E. Tyburski
- Zoey Ziegler
The Ralph White Prize in Mathematics: Delia Ann Waltenberry
Donated in 1921 by Mrs. Mary White in memory of her son, Ralph (Class of 1899), The Ralph White Prize in Mathematics recognizes a sophomore student who excels in the study of mathematics.
- Delia Ann Waltenberry - Delia has distinguished herself among our incoming mathematics majors in multiple ways. She displays excellent conceptual understanding on both exams and challenging homework projects, but is also able to focus on detailed calculations and precise formulas. Delia is also very interested in neuroscience and we look forward to seeing her apply her mathematical knowledge in the sciences.
The Alexander Wiley Prize: Camara White
The Alexander Wiley Prize honors the legacy of Alexander Wiley, who served Wisconsin as a United States Senator for 24 years. This award is given to an undergraduate, ideally a senior, who has most exemplified principled independence of thought, moral courage, and a creative commitment to a significant cause throughout their college career.
- Camara White - She has served as an Orientation Leader Coordinator who oversaw other Orientation Leaders. She has demonstrated responsibility, dependability, and a sense of inclusivity to make all that she encounters feel welcome and like they belong. Also during her time as a group leader, she stepped up to share herself and shared stories of her first year on campus. After the Orientation of the first years, she could be seen on campus engaging with the students she had met during welcome week. Camara is always smiling, supportive and approachable. She has also stood out as a member of the conservatory, an on campus tutor, and a student staff member in the Career Center.
The Charlotte Wood Prize in English: Carie Huseby
Established in 1961 and named for Charlotte Wood, Lawrence University Class of 1901. It is awarded to the student with the best essay entered in an annual competition.
- Carie Huseby - Colonialism, Decolonization, and Freedom. In content, the essay deals with tricky concepts—colonialism, decolonization, and independence—skillfully and creatively. In style, the essay is written with a nuanced perspective and a lively voice.
The Henry Merritt Wriston Scholarship: Despoina Chatzimoysi, Sienna Rebecca Falanga, William Siegl-Gesin, Elizabeth Grace Stevens
The Henry Merritt Wriston Scholarship, established in 1975 to honor its eighth president, recognizes students who embody the ideals of a truly educated person, demonstrating academic excellence alongside broad interests, balanced personalities, and multiple talents.
- Despoina Chatzimoysi
- Sienna Rebecca Falanga
- William Siegl-Gesin
- Elizabeth Grace Stevens
Elected To Lambda Sigma: Listed
- Adrijana Albijanic
- Alyssa Buabeng-Frimpong
- Ziyang Chang
- Josie Chose
- Lara Dodd
- Vivian Frobish
- Abigail Geyer
- Tyler Graham
- Annika Gruber
- Caden Guy
- Clara Hills
- Hayden Johnson
- Olivia Klausmeier
- Allison Lewis
- Meredith Meidl
- Juan Navarrete
- Celine Park
- Matilda Ramont
- Inaya Rivera Rodriguez
- Sadie Schuh
- Logan Schwartzhoff
- Will Siegl-Gesin
- Adrian Stancil-Martin
- Catherine Stanish
- Ash Stenger
- Julia Tomandl
- Luong Tran
- Lydia Warfel
- Brandon Whalley
- Jonathan Xique
- Johannes Zhu
- Zoey Ziegler
Elected to Mortar Board: Listed
- Natasha Gibson
- Miles McCue
- Violet Scott
- Dennis Boakye
- Kylie Loomis
- Megan Eisenstein
- Wallace Anthon
- Tahlia Moe
- Nicolas Manzanera
- Nason Lancina
- Jack Ginsberg
- Maddie Santiago
- Lorelei Paddock-Chappell
- Kate Adams
- Sophia Bluemke
- Charlotte Brennan
- Danny Glasco
- Janessa Gonzalez
- Morgan Cross
- Eitan Price
- Adrian Risilia
- Kylie Kutschera
- Emma Moya
- Troy Cassidy
- Kayla Jarppi
- Minnie Keene
- Lillian Bates
- Erica Grube
- Immanuel Redah
- Sophia Gaus
- Blair Vandehey
- Michael Van Dervoort
- Sophia Morey
Eligible Members for Phi Beta Kappa: Listed
- Tess Borneman
- Joseph Kraemer Carpenter
- Haoyi Chen
- Nicholas Chrisman
- Joseph Robert Davis
- Mollie Davis
- Adam Fleischer
- Shane P. Foley
- Quinn Halpern
- Subin Han
- Lara Herkenrath
- Madeline Clare Jones
- Andrew Larson
- Charlotte Lehmann
- Lifeng Li
- Natalie Linebarger
- Stella Macfarlane
- Elizabeth McArthur
- Kelley McClure
- Keegan Mencke
- Megan Ramona Mendyke
- Kourtney Mercer
- Madison Mishica
- Quynh Nguyen
- Lillian Justine Thompson Nittler
- Reese Pike
- Samantha Kristine Piwoni
- Marissa Polzin
- Khayla Roshelle Santiago
- Jordan Simons
- Greta Thoresen
- Grace Rebekah Wiersma
- Rose Nancy Williams
- Irene Yank
Elected Members for Pi Kappa Lambda: Listed
- Mia Kraker
- Sam Dill
- Kai Frueh
- Nina Schifano
- Annika Schmidt
- Allison Juarez Wunderlin
- Devin Hessler
- Nicholas Chrisman
- Abigail Herrick
- Thea Weinbeck
- Qiaochuhan Li
- Sophia Eckdale-Dudley
- Sarah Pedlar
- Lauren Coon
- Matthew Carlson
- Tanvi Thatai
- Ben Keating
Elected Members for Alpha Rho Mu chapter of Phi Alpha Theta: Listed
- Jada Adamson-Tate
- Olivia Nicole Ashe
- Nate Booth
- Octavia Chudnow
- Joseph De Rosa
- Leo Hagberg
- Grace Hitchens
- James Walden Hoddie
- Max Hollingsworth-Hays
- Emma Jacobs
- Cal Jett
- Sophia Lewis
- Victoria Lopez
- Nolan Madrigrano
- Aleksandra McKinnies
- Paul McMahon
- Nyhan O’Sullivan
- Rex Pearson
- Matthew Roh
- Samuel Lucas Schuler
- Mathis Smith
- Deirdre Spaulding
- Adrian Susic
- Em Sweeney
- Ernesto Cristian Torres
- Diana Butler Van Gilder
- Hayden Young