Prizes by Department and Subject
Academic departments and subject areas:
African and African American Studies
American Studies
Anthropology
Applied Physics
Archaeological Studies
Art
Art Gallery
Astronomy
Biomedical Engineering
Book Collecting
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Classics
Comparative Literature
Computer Science
Debating and Public Speaking
East Asian Studies
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Economics
Electrical Engineering
Engineering & Applied Science
English
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Studies
Film Studies
French
Gay and Lesbian Studies
Geology and Geophysics
German
History
History of Art
Humanities
International and Area Studies
Judaic Studies
Latin American Studies
Library
Mathematics
Mechanical Engineering
Mineralogy
Modern Languages
Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Music
Near Eastern Languages and Literatures
Peabody Museum
Philosophy
Physics
Political Science
Porter, John Addision
Portuguese
Printing
Psychology
Religious Studies
Russian
Russian and East European Studies
Slavic Languages and Literatures
Social Sciences
Sociology
Spanish
Theater Studies
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Writing
African and African American Studies top
WILLIAM PICKENS (1974). In honor of William Pickens, B.A. 1904. Awarded annually to the most outstanding senior essay in the field of African and African American Studies.
American Studies top
PERCIVAL W. CLEMENT PRIZE (1994). Awarded to a junior or senior for the best thesis in the support of the principles of the Constitution of the United States of America and the first ten amendments. Also open to students in History and Political Science.
HENRY K. HAYASE PRIZE (1988). Friends and alumni in memory of Henry K. Hayase, B.A. 1973. Awarded for the best student paper or senior thesis dealing with a topic relating to the Asian American experience in the United States.
NORMAN HOLMES PEARSON PRIZE (1976). Students, colleagues, and friends in memory of Professor Norman Holmes Pearson, B.A. 1932, Ph.D. 1941. Awarded to a senior in Yale College majoring in American Studies for the best senior essay.
Anthropology top
MICHAEL D. COE (2004). In honor of Michael D. Coe, Charles J. MacCurdy Professor of Anthropology at Yale (1960-94), a preeminent scholar in Mesoamerican archaeology, and driving force in the creation of the interdisciplinary Archaeological Studies major in Yale College. Awarded annually to the most outstanding senior essay by Anthropology major for an archaeological studies topic. Requires nomination by the adviser.
EDWARD SAPIR (1991). In honor of Edward Sapir, Sterling Professor of Anthropology at Yale (1931-39), a preeminent scholar in linguistic anthropology, and one of the founders of the Anthropology Department. Awarded annually to the most outstanding senior essay by an Anthropology major. Requires nomination by the adviser and/or second reader.
PETER AND MARION SCHWARTZ FAMILY FOUNDATION (2008). Donated by Schwartz Family Foundation. Awarded to the author of the most outstanding senior essay in biological anthropology by Anthropology major. Requires nomination by the adviser.
Applied Physics top
THE APPLIED PHYSICS PRIZE (1996). Awarded to a senior in Applied Physics who, in the judgment of the Applied Physics faculty, has exhibited outstanding achievement, insight, and originality in independent research. The selection process will be based on a written nomination from the student’s adviser, and input provided by the faculty attending the students’ presentations of their research projects. Nominations will be reviewed by the award committee, consisting of the director of undergraduate studies (chair of the committee) and two other Applied Physics faculty members, which will then select the winner. The award will be presented at the student’s residential college at Commencement.
Archaeological Studies top
MICHAEL D. COE (2004). In honor of Michael D. Coe, Charles J. MacCurdy Professor of Anthropology at Yale (1960-94), a preeminent scholar in Mesoamerican archaeology and driving force in the creation of the interdisciplinary Archaeological Studies major in Yale College. Awarded annually to the most outstanding senior essay by an Archaeological Studies major. Requires nomination by the adviser.
Art top
ETHEL CHILDE WALKER (1885). Mrs. Edward Ashley Walker of New Haven in memory of her daughter. For recognition of exceptional artistic development by an undergraduate majoring in art.
Art Gallery top
A. CONGER GOODYEAR FINE ARTS AWARD (1962). Established in the Art Gallery by A. Conger Goodyear, B.A. 1899, to further interest in the connoisseurship and collecting of works of art by students in the History of Art. Awarded upon recommendation by the Chair of the History of Art to one, two, or three students for outstanding work, interest, and promise. The Chair and the director of undergraduate studies in the History of Art, the director of the Art Gallery, and the curator of Prints and Drawings select the winners, who are allowed to choose one work of art from a special collection of prints provided for this purpose.
Astronomy top
GEORGE BECKWITH (1926). Dr. Glover C. Beckwith-Ewell of Hartford, Connecticut, in memory of his grandfather, George Beckwith, publisher of Beckwith’s Almanac. For the undergraduate most proficient in some branch of astronomy or mathematics.
DIRK BROUWER (1967). Dirk Brouwer, M.A. Hon. 1941. Awarded upon recommendation by the Chair of the Astronomy Department to a student for a contribution of unusual merit to any branch of astronomy.
Biomedical Engineering top
THE D. ALLAN BROMLEY PRIZE IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING (2000) is awarded to a Senior who has exhibited superior accomplishment and scholarly achievement in Biomedical Engineering.
Book Collecting top
ADRIAN VAN SINDEREN. See under Library.
Chemical Engineering top
HARRY A. CURTIS (1992). Donated by Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Walker in memory of Harry A. Curtis, the first chemical engineer appointed to the Yale faculty. Awarded to a junior or senior who, in the judgment of the chemical engineering faculty, has contributed most to the academic life of his or her class.
THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JUNIOR PRIZE (1994). Alumni donation. Awarded yearly to a junior for outstanding scholarship in the field of chemical engineering.
THE WALKER PRIZE IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING (1992). Donated by Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Walker. Awarded yearly to a graduating senior for outstanding scholarship in the field of chemical engineering.
Chemistry top
WERNER BERGMANN (1961). Members of the Yale faculty and students in honor of Professor Werner Bergmann. Awarded to the outstanding senior in the Chemistry Department.
ARTHUR FLEISCHER AWARD (1988). Arthur Fleischer, Jr., Allan A. Fleischer, and Everly B. Fleischer in honor of their father, Arthur Fleischer, B.A. 1924S, Ph.D. 1927. Awarded for outstanding performance in chemistry.
HOWARD DOUGLASS MOORE, ’33S (1971). Miss La Vina Moore of Baltimore, Maryland, in memory of her brother. For excellence in the field of chemistry.
Classics top
CHARLES A. BRISTED (1848). Charles Astor Bristed, B.A. 1839. To the scholar of the Junior or Sophomore class who shall pass the best examination in the classics.
JACOB COOPER (1900). Professor Albert Stanburrough Cook, M.A. Hon. 1889, in honor of Professor Jacob Cooper, B.A. 1852. Awarded jointly by the departments of Classics and Philosophy to the resident undergraduate or graduate student who presents the best essay on Greek philosophy. Consult Classics or Philosophy for deadline.
ALICE DERBY LANG (1944). Henry R. Lang, M.A. Hon. 1897, in memory of his wife. Awarded to “those students who shall have attained high scholarship in the domain of classical literature or art.”
Freshman Prizes
HENRY A. HURLBUT (1858). Established by Henry A. Hurlbut, father of William H. Hurlbut, B.A. 1860, supplemented from income of the William Henry Hurlbut (Class of 1860) Scholarship Fund. For the freshman standing highest in a competitive examination in Latin.
Junior and Senior Prize
WINTHROP (1871). Buchanan Winthrop, B.A. 1862. Awarded to students with the highest in competitive examinations in Greek and in Latin.
Comparative Literature top
BIANCA MARIA CALABRESI (1986). Guido Calabresi, B.S. 1953, LL.B. 1958 and Paul Calabresi, B.A. 1951, M.D. 1955, in memory of their mother, Bianca Maria Finzi-Contini Calabresi, Ph.D. 1949. Awarded to the author of the best senior essay in Comparative Literature in Yale College.
ALVIN B. KERNAN (1983). For the best senior essay in the Literature major.
Computer Science top
COMPUTER SCIENCE PRIZE (1999). Awarded to the graduating senior majoring in computer science who, in the judgment of the Computer Science faculty, ranks highest in scholarship.
Debating and Public Speaking top
JOHN CHESTER ADAMS INTERCOLLEGE DEBATE TROPHY (1948). University Debating Association of 1947-48 to honor John Chester Adams, B.A. 1896, for many years Director of Debating and Public Speaking. For the winning club of the intercollege debate league.
BUCK-JACKSON (1919). Mrs. Henry B. Buck in memory of her son, Parker Dickson Buck, B.A. honoris causa post-obit 1919, and increased in 1961 by bequest of Schuyler B. Jackson, B.A. 1871. Awarded to a sophomore for the best original oration on a subject of patriotic nature.
DAVID C. DEFOREST (1823). David C. DeForest of New Haven. For the senior “who shall write and pronounce an English Oration in the best manner.”
HENRY JAMES TENEYCK (1888). Members of Kingsley Trust Association in memory of Henry J. TenEyck, B.A. 1879. For the successful competitors among the junior class in an oratorical contest.
THACHER MEMORIAL (1893). Members of the Class of 1842 in honor of Professor Thomas A. Thacher, B.A. 1835. For encouragement of extemporaneous debate among undergraduates. Awarded annually to participants in the Triangular Debates.
TOWNSEND PREMIUMS (1843). Isaac H. Townsend, B.A. 1822. Awarded to seniors participating in the DeForest Prize-Speaking Contest.
East Asian Studies top
WILLIAMS (1961). Elizabeth Williams (Mrs. Dalton V.) Garstin, B.F.A. 1925, and Professor Kenneth Scott Latourette, B.A. 1906, in honor of Professor Samuel Wells Williams, M.A. Hon. 1877, and Professor Frederick Wells Williams, B.A. 1879, M.A. Hon. 1924. Prize or prizes awarded to an undergraduate senior(s) in any department at Yale University for an outstanding paper completed during the current academic year on a Chinese, Japanese, or Korean subject.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology top
WILLIAM R. BELKNAP (1872). William R. Belknap, Ph.D. 1869. Two awards in the natural history studies of senior year: one for excellence in biological studies, one for excellence in geological studies.
EDGAR J. BOELL PRIZE (1975). Colleagues, students and friends of Professor Boell. Awarded annually to a senior for excellence in biology.
Economics top
CHARLES HEBER DICKERMAN MEMORIAL (1939). Herman Press of New York City in memory of Charles H. Dickerman II, Ph.B. 1931. For the best departmental essays by seniors majoring in economics.
ELLINGTON PRIZE (2009). For the best senior essay in finance.
LOUIS F. LAUN AWARD (1970). The Textile Veterans Association. Awarded to a junior or senior majoring in economics for overall excellence in his/her program of study in Yale College.
WILLIAM M. MASSEE (1972). William Massee. Awarded to a junior or senior majoring in economics whose overall record displays excellence and reflects a concern for the use of economic analysis in examining the problems that confront American and other economies.
RONALD MELTZER/CORNELIA AWDZIEWICZ ECONOMIC AWARD (1986). Ronald Meltzer and the Evergreen Foundation. For an outstanding senior essay in economics.
RICHARD HEGEL PRIZE FOR A SENIOR ESSAY ON NEW HAVEN (2001). See under History.
WREXHAM PRIZE. See under Social Sciences.
Electrical Engineering top
EDWARD O. LANPHIER MEMORIAL (1922). Robert C. Lanphier, Ph.B. 1897, and Mrs. Lanphier, parents of Edward O. Lanphier of the Class of 1923S, who died in September, 1922, before completing the course in electrical engineering. Awarded to a senior in Engineering and Applied Science who has a superior accomplishment in fields related to electricity and its applications and who has demonstrated initiative in the field of research.
FRANZ TUTEUR MEMORIAL PRIZE (1994). Established through donations by friends, students, and colleagues of Franz Tuteur, a Yale professor from 1955 to 1987. Awarded to a senior in Electrical Engineering who, in the judgment of the Electrical Engineering faculty, has accomplished the most outstanding senior project.
Engineering & Applied Science top
HENRY PRENTISS BECTON (1968). Henry P. Becton, 1937S, whose gift made possible the construction of the Becton Center. “For rewarding and encouraging outstanding student performance” on the part of a senior in Engineering and Applied Science in the judgment of the head of Engineering and Applied Science or any committee s/he may designate.
BELLE AND CARL MORSE SCHOLARSHIP (1989). Awarded to a student in Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering who has completed his or her junior year and, by outstanding scholarship and participation in extracurricular activities within the department, has demonstrated leadership among fellow students.
English top
ACADEMY OF AMERICAN POETS (1954). Mrs. Mary Cummings Eudy, a former member of the Academy. Awarded annually for the best poem or group of poems, unpublished or published in a University magazine, submitted during the year. All unpublished entries for this prize will also be eligible for the Cook Prize. Competition open to all students regularly enrolled in the University.
DONALD ANNIS. See under Modern Languages.
GORDON BARBER MEMORIAL (1985). Melanie G. Barber in memory of her son, Gordon Barber. A poetry award open to all students regularly enrolled in the University.
C. WYLLYS BETTS (1890). Established through the Phelps Association by Louis F. H. Betts, B.A. 1891, in memory of his uncle, C. Wyllys Betts, B.A. 1867. For a sophomore for meritorious work in required compositions of the year or in a special essay on a prescribed subject or subject chosen by the student and approved by the faculty.
BLOCH (1941). Bequest of Solomon M. Bloch. A book prize for the freshman who shall write the best essay in English. Consult the department for deadline.
ALBERT STANBURROUGH COOK (1925). Professor Albert Stanburrough Cook, M.A. Hon. 1889, to provide for continuance of a prize given by him for many years. Awarded for the best unpublished poem or group of poems. Competition open to all students regularly enrolled in the University.
JOHN HUBBARD CURTIS (1900). Mrs. Thomas W. T. Curtis in memory of her son, John H. Curtis, B.A. 1887. Awarded for literary or rhetorical work on assigned topics.
JOHN HERSEY (1985). Students of John Hersey. To a senior or junior for a body of journalistic work reflecting the spirit and ideals of John Hersey: engagement with moral and social issues, responsible reportage, and consciousness of craftsmanship.
SHOLOM HERSON & MARCIA HERSON SCHOLARSHIP (1927). Newton Rudolph Herson, B.A. 1926 in memory of his parents. To a Senior who intends to do graduate work in English literature.
McLAUGHLIN MEMORIAL (1894). Friends and pupils in memory of Professor Edward T. McLaughlin, B.A. 1883. First and second prizes, in books, awarded for encouragement of English composition in freshman year.
EDWARD THOMPKINS McLAUGHLIN SCHOLARSHIP (1933). Mary B. McLaughlin in memory of her son, Edward T. McLaughlin, B.A. 1883, former Professor of Rhetoric and Belles Lettres. For a junior for excellence in English composition and the study of English literature during the earlier years of his/her course. Award announced during the student’s senior year.
J. EDWARD MEEKER (1956). Estate of Lucy J. Meeker in memory of her son, J. Edward Meeker, B.A. 1913. For a prize or prizes in English to be awarded to a member or members of the freshman class.
LLOYD MIFFLIN (1923). Houston Mifflin. Awarded to seniors majoring in English or American literature for senior essays.
RALPH PAINE MEMORIAL (1926). Members of the Class of 1894 in memory of Ralph D. Paine, B.A. 1894. To a senior majoring in English for the best senior essay.
RICHARD SCHOENBERG (1943). Dr. Herman B. Schoenberg of New York City in memory of his son, Richard Schoenberg, B.A. 1943. To a junior or senior for the best essay on some American poet or some phase of American poetry.
HENRY H. STRONG (1929). Henry H. Strong, B.A. 1883, to the Phelps Association as trustee. To a junior or senior, for the best essay on a phase of American literature or the best story on an incident in the lives of American people.
CHAUNCEY BREWSTER TINKER, ’99 (1962). Anonymous gift in honor of the Keeper of Rare Books. For a prize to be awarded to the outstanding senior in English.
WINSTON TROWBRIDGE TOWNSEND (1898). Judge William K. Townsend, B.A. 187l, in memory of his son, a member of the Class of 1901. A book prize for excellence in English composition in the freshman year. Consult the department for deadline.
ELMORE A. WILLETS (1981). Ann (Mrs. William) Boyd, in memory of her father, Elmore A. Willets (1884). Awarded for the best entries in fiction writing, either novel or short story. Normally divided among at least three winners each year (e.g., one for a novel, two for short stories).
HENRY P. WRIGHT MEMORIAL (1908). Members of the Class of 1868 in memory of Dean Henry P. Wright, B.A. 1868. For the best descriptive, imaginative, or journalistic article of from 2,500 to 5,000 words.
Environmental Engineering top
THE D. ALLAN BROMLEY PRIZE IN ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING (2000) is awarded to a Senior who has exhibited superior accomplishment and scholarly achievement in Environmental Engineering.
Environmental Studies top
GAYLORD DONNELLEY PRIZE IN STUDIES IN THE ENVIRONMENT. The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation and the Donnelley Family in memory of Mr. Gaylord Donnelley, a conservationist dedicated to advances in research and education. The award is made by faculty to the author of a distinguished piece of interdisciplinary scholarship.
Film Studies top
HOWARD R. LAMAR PRIZE IN FILM AND VIDEO (1993). The Bruce Geller Fund. In honor of Howard Lamar, 21st President of Yale and long-standing member of the Film Studies Committee. Awarded annually to a graduating senior, either for outstanding work in film and/or video or for an outstanding essay on some aspect of cinema and/or television. Majors in any department are eligible, provided submitted work is completed during the senior year.
French top
MONTAIGNE. See under Modern Languages.
SCOTT. See under Modern Languages.
Gay and Lesbian Studies top
GALA (1999). The Gay and Lesbian Alumni Association. Awarded to a graduating senior whose essay is judged to be most relevant to gay and lesbian issues.
Geology and Geophysics top
WILLIAM R. BELKNAP (1872). William R. Belknap, Ph.B. 1869. Two awards in the natural history studies of senior year: one for excellence in biological studies, one for excellence in geological studies.
HAMMER PRIZE. Awarded “for excellence in the oral presentation of the senior thesis.”
SAMUEL LEWIS PENFIELD (1906). Morris B. Belknap, Ph.B. 1877, in memory of Samuel L. Penfield, Ph.B. 1877. Awarded to an undergraduate for proficiency in mineralogy.
PAT WILDE PRIZE (1973). Pat Wilde, B.A. 1957. Awarded to a senior for excellence in marine geology and oceanography.
German top
DONALD ANNIS. See under Modern Languages.
LOTHAR HAUSMANN MEMORIAL FUND. See under Modern Languages.
SCOTT. See under Modern Languages.
History top
MAX BILDNER PRIZE (2001). Awarded for the best senior essay in Latin American history.
CANADIAN HISTORY PRIZE (1999). Awarded by the Canadian Studies Committee for the best essay in Canadian Studies.
PERCIVAL W. CLEMENT PRIZE (1994). Awarded to a junior or senior for the best thesis in the support of the principles of the Constitution of the United States of America and the first ten amendments. Also open to students in American Studies and Political Science.
GEORGE WASHINGTON EGLESTON (1901). George Washington Egleston of Eardisley, Herefordshire, England, brother of Thomas Egleston, B.A. 1854, and William C. Egleston, B.A. 1861. For the best essay on American history completed by a resident student during the current academic year. Doctoral dissertations presented in the Department of History in the appropriate field are considered as entered in competition.
ROBERT D. GRIES (1981). Robert D. Gries. For the best essay in History other than American or European (including Russia).
RICHARD HEGEL PRIZE FOR A SENIOR ESSAY ON NEW HAVEN (2001). Sponsored by the Yale Club of New Haven, the Hegel Prize was awarded for the first time in celebration of Yale's Tercentennial year. The prize is named in honor of Richard Hegel because of his enduring commitment to the partnership of the University and the City of New Haven. The Hegel Prize is to be awarded for an outstanding senior essay pertaining to the greater New Haven area. Senior essays from any department of Yale College are eligible.
JOHN ADDISON PORTER-AMERICAN HISTORY (1901). Mrs. Porter in memory of her husband, John A. Porter, B.A. 1878. To a junior or senior for the best original essay completed during the current academic year on a subject bearing upon the political, constitutional, or economic history, condition, or future of the United States. Essays submitted by seniors majoring in American history in fulfillment of the major requirement are considered as entered in competition.
EDWIN W. SMALL (1990). Carmen R. Small in memory of Edwin W. Small, B.A. 1930, M.A. 1934. Awarded in recognition and furtherance of outstanding work in the field of American history.
WINIFRED STURLEY (1984). Richard A. Sturley, B.E. 1949, M.Eng. 1950, and Michael F. Sturley B.A. 1977, J.D. 1981, in honor of Winifred Sturley, M.A. Hon. 1955. Awarded to the student in the History Department who submits the best senior essay on a topic in English history.
ANDREW D. WHITE (1902). First awarded in 1907, the gift of Professor Guy Stanton Ford of the University of Illinois in honor of Andrew D. White, B.A. 1853; endowed by a bequest from Mr. White. For the best essays, one in American history, one in European history, and one in third-world history by freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and graduate students and for the best essay in European, English, or third-world history by a junior, senior, or graduate student. Senior essays in English, European, or third-world history in fulfillment of the major requirement are considered as entered in competition. All essays must be completed during the current academic year.
History of Art top
VINCENT DYCKMAN ANDRUS, CLASS OF 1938, MEMORIAL (1963). Dorelle Moulton (Mrs. Vincent Dyckman) Andrus, Moulton L. Andrus, B.A. 1962, V. Dyckman Andrus, Jr., B.A. 1963, Helen Palmer Andrus, and friends and associates of Mr. Andrus. For a prize for an undergraduate who presents the best essay on the history of American painting, sculpture, or the decorative arts.
HELEN A. COOPER SCHOLAR OF AMERICAN PAINTINGS AND SCULPTURE AWARD (1996). Nancy and Henry E. Bartels in honor of teacher Helen A. Cooper. Awarded to juniors or seniors who demonstrate superior performance in their respective fields, to participate in internships to further their study of American art. The award shall be made on the basis of applications, supported by recommendations from faculty. The final selections will be made by a committee of representatives from the History of Art faculty, each of the American Arts departments, and the Yale Center for British Art.
MARK DEITZ MEMORIAL (1969). Paula Deitz in honor of her brother of the Class of 1969, for original research by an undergraduate in the History of Art.
WALTER LOUIS EHRICH MEMORIAL (1938). Anonymous donor in memory of Walter L. Ehrich, Ph.B. 1899. For an outstanding student in the History of Art, for the purpose of assisting and encouraging the recipient in the work of collecting objects of art for personal enjoyment.
A. CONGER GOODYEAR FINE ARTS AWARD. See under Art Gallery.
PATRICIA E. KANE SCHOLAR OF AMERICAN DECORATIVE ARTS AWARD (1996). Nancy and Henry E. Bartels in honor of teacher Patricia E. Kane. Awarded to juniors or seniors who demonstrate superior performance in their respective fields, to participate in internships to further their study of American art. The award shall be made on the basis of applications, supported by recommendations from faculty. The final selections will be made by a committee of representatives from the History of Art faculty, each of the American Arts departments, and the Yale Center for British Art.
MARGARET LAUGHLIN MARSHALL - JOHN M. S. ALLISON (1944). For a Fellowship to a member of the Junior or Senior Class who intends to enter the scholarly profession in the Arts or Letters, preferably European History of Art, and during such time as such person shall be studying to obtain his degree of Doctor of Philosophy; to be used by such person for study here and/or abroad. The same appointee may hold the fellowship for four years. The award shall be made on the basis of applications, supported by recommendations from faculty. The final selections will be made by a committee of representatives from the History of Art faculty, each of the American Arts departments and the Yale Center for British Art.
DUNCAN ROBINSON SCHOLAR OF BRITISH ART AWARD (1996). Nancy and Henry E. Bartels in honor of teacher Duncan Robinson. Awarded to juniors or seniors who demonstrate superior performance in their respective fields, to participate in internships to further their study of British Art. The award shall be made on the basis of applications, supported by recommendations from faculty. The final selections will be made by a committee of representatives from the History of Art faculty, each of the American Arts departments, and the Yale Center for British Art.
Humanities top
E. FRANCIS RIGGS MEMORIAL PRIZE. Lawrason Riggs, B.A. 1910, in memory of his father and brother. The prize is awarded annually to that member of the freshman class of Yale College enrolled in the Special Courses in the Humanities for freshmen who, in the judgment of the Committee on award of the prize, consisting of the faculty teaching those courses, demonstrates the best knowledge of general culture by means of the distinction of his/her performance. For further information, consult the Office of Special Programs in the Humanities.
WREXHAM (1956). Manuscript Society (Wrexham Foundation, Inc.). For that senior who shall be judged to have written the best senior essay in the field of the humanities. Given in memory of Wallace Notestein, M.A. 1903, Ph.D. 1908, Litt.D. 1951. For further information consult the Yale College Dean’s Office.
International and Area Studies top
JAMES GORDON BENNETT. See under Political Science.
JOURNALISM PRIZE (2000). Awarded by a Committee of faculty and administrators to the student reporter who writes the best story on some aspect of international affairs or foreign relations appearing in a Yale publication.
WOLFGANG LEONHARD PRIZE IN RUSSIAN AND EAST EUROPEAN STUDIES. See under Russian and East European Studies.
HENRY HART RICE PRIZE. Endowed by the late Henry Hart Rice. Awarded to the best senior essay in International Studies.
Judaic Studies top
AMERICAN JEWISH CONGRESS. See under Religious Studies.
Latin American Studies top
ALBERT BILDNER TRAVEL PRIZE (1977). Albert Bildner, Class of 1937. For Latin American Studies majors and other Yale College students who are in their junior year, for research in the field the summer between the junior and senior years. All students who are doing research on Latin America for their senior essays are eligible to apply; however, preference will be given to Latin American Studies majors.
MAX BILDNER PRIZE (2001). See under History.
Library top
HARVEY M. APPLEBAUM (2007). Established by the family and friends of Harvey M. Applebaum, B.A. 1959, for an outstanding senior essay based on research done in the collections of the University Library's Government Documents & Information Center. Essays may be submitted by faculty advisers or by students to Julie Linden, Government Documents Librarian, Social Science Library.
HOWARD R. LAMAR (1997). William P. MacKinnon, B.A. 1960, and Richard A. MacKinnon, B.A. 1960. To be awarded annually for the best undergraduate essay on a topic in the history or culture of the North American West. For further information, consult the Curator of Western Americana, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
LIBRARY MAP (1949). Mrs. Arthur W. Butler of New York City. Awarded by the University Library to the student who makes best use of maps in his/her senior essay or its equivalent. Essays must be submitted through the departments or independently to Abraham Parrish, Map Department, Sterling Memorial Library.
WALTER McCLINTOCK (1952). Walter McClintock, B.A. 1891, Curator of the McClintock Indian Collection in the University Library 1934-49. To be awarded annually for the best undergraduate essay on a topic in the history or culture of the North American West. For further information, consult the Curator of Western Americana, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
DAVID M. POTTER (1997). William P. MacKinnon, B.A. 1960, and Richard A. MacKinnon, B.A. 1960. To be awarded annually for the best undergraduate essay on a topic in American history or culture. For further information, consult the Curator of Western Americana, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
ADRIAN VAN SINDEREN (1957). Adrian Van Sinderen, B.A. 1910, “to stimulate book collecting among undergraduates, to encourage bookbuying, book-owning, and book-reading both as a hobby and as a fundamental part of the educational process.” Prizes are awarded not on the basis of the rarity or monetary value of the books but for the imagination and intelligence used by the student in forming the collection. A cash prize is awarded to a senior and to a sophomore. For further information, see the Van Sinderen Book Collecting Prize site and consult Rebecca Martz, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
MANUSCRIPTS AND ARCHIVES DIANE KAPLAN MEMORIAL SENIOR ESSAY PRIZES (2003):
Two student prizes to be awarded, as follows:
- Awarded to a senior in any department for an outstanding essay based on research done in Manuscripts and Archives.
- Awarded to a senior in any department for an outstanding senior essay on Yale.
Mathematics top
BENJAMIN F. BARGE (1900). Benjamin F. Barge, B.A. 1857. Awarded to freshmen and sophomores for solution of original problems in mathematics.
GEORGE BECKWITH (1926). Dr. Glover C. Beckwith-Ewell of Hartford, Connecticut, in memory of his grandfather, George Beckwith, publisher of Beckwith’s Almanac. For the undergraduate most proficient in some branch of astronomy or mathematics.
DEFOREST (1855). Established by John DeForest, B.A. 1826, and increased in 1886 by his son, Erastus L. DeForest, B.A. 1854. Awarded to seniors for proficiency in pure and applied mathematics.
JOHN ALAN LEWIS SUMMER RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (1964). Richard Lewis, B.A. 1940, Mrs. Lewis, and Mrs. I. E. Levy in memory of their son and grandson, John Alan Lewis, Class of 1967. For an undergraduate majoring in mathematics who wishes to continue studies over the summer and who, in the opinion of the University, is most worthy of receiving the fellowship.
ANTHONY D. STANLEY MEMORIAL (1904). Walter S. Pitkin, B.A. 1858, in memory of his uncle, Professor Anthony D. Stanley, B.A. 1830. For excellence in pure and applied mathematics.
Mechanical Engineering top
L. C. LICHTY AND E. O. WATERS PRIZE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (2003). Senior award for high scholarship and original research.
DONALD WARREN McCROSKY MEMORIAL (1963). Mrs. Josephine T. McCrosky in memory of her son, Donald Warren McCrosky, Ph.B. 1919. For the senior in Engineering and Applied Science who, in the judgment of the faculty, is deserving of greatest distinction for scholarly achievement in fields related to mechanics and its applications.
Mineralogy top
SAMUEL LEWIS PENFIELD. See under Geology and Geophysics.
Modern Languages top
DONALD ANNIS (1908). Mr. and Mrs. Newton Annis of Detroit, in memory of their son, Donald Annis, Class of 1910. For the best record as a freshman and sophomore in courses in English and German aggregating not less than twelve hours of classroom work.
BILDNER PRIZES IN LATIN AMERICAN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES (1974). Albert Bildner, Class of 1937. Awarded for high achievement in the Spanish and Portuguese languages and in Latin American literature. Four prizes to be awarded, as follows:
- In honor of Professor Jose J. Arrom, B.A. 1937, Professor of Spanish and Latin American Literature at Yale 1945-75. For an outstanding essay written in Spanish on any subject in Spanish American literature. The paper is to be written in acceptable Spanish; however, it will be judged mainly for the originality and importance of the ideas presented therein. All undergraduates studying Spanish are eligible to compete.
- In memory of Patricia Bildner. For an outstanding essay written in Portuguese on any subject in Brazilian literature. The paper is to be written in acceptable Portuguese; however, it will be judged mainly for the originality and importance of the ideas presented therein. All undergraduates studying Portuguese are eligible to compete.
- To that graduating senior who has achieved a high academic average in Spanish courses, and has also demonstrated the greatest development in his/her knowledge of the Spanish language and Hispanic literature since beginning the study of Spanish at Yale. The student must have taken a minimum number of courses in the Spanish language and in Hispanic literature.
- In honor of Professor K. David Jackson, the Brazil prize is awarded to a graduating senior who has achieved a high academic average in Portuguese courses, and has also demonstrated the greatest development in his/her knowledge of the Portuguese language and Luso-Brazilian literature at Yale. The student must have taken a satisfactory number of courses in the Portuguese language and in Luso-Brazilian literature.
BILDNER TRAVEL PRIZE. See under Latin American Studies.
LOTHAR HAUSMANN MEMORIAL FUND (1976). Romy Hausmann and Herman Mark Harris, Class of 1957. To be awarded to a graduating senior for excellence in German, German Studies, or German as part of the Comparative Literature major.
MONTAIGNE. Anonymous gift (1914) and bequest (1932) from Edward Bement, B.A. 1870. For juniors and seniors for proficiency in speaking and writing French. Awarded on the basis of a written or oral examination, the exact date to be announced in March. Not open to students whose French has been chiefly acquired abroad.
SCOTT (1873). Henry W. Scott, B.A. 1863. Book prizes are offered as follows:
- In French: For the student in any French course numbered 160 or higher who, having written an outstanding midyear examination, submits the best essay (in French) in the course.
- In German: For an undergraduate essay written on a topic in German literature. The winning essay will be selected by the faculty of the German department.
- In Russian: For an undergraduate essay written on a topic in Russian literature. The winning essay will be selected by the faculty of the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures.
WOLFGANG LEONHARD PRIZE IN RUSSIAN AND EAST EUROPEAN STUDIES. See under Russian and East European Studies.
Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry top
PAUL SIGLER MEMORIAL (2001). Founded by a friend and colleague in memory of Paul Sigler, who was a distinguished member of the faculty in the Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry. The Sigler Prize is awarded to a graduating Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry major who has demonstrated excellence in scholarship and research.
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology top
WILLIAM R. BELKNAP (1872). William R. Belknap, Ph.B. 1869. Two awards in the natural history studies of senior year: one for excellence in biological studies, one for excellence in geological studies.
EDGAR J. BOELL PRIZE (1975). Colleagues, students, and friends of Professor Boell. Awarded annually to a senior for excellence in biology.
Music top
BACH SOCIETY PRIZE (1986). The Yale Bach Society, dedicated to the graduating class in music of 1986. For the graduating senior who, in the opinion of the Department of Music, has demonstrated a high level of musicianship and dedication to his/her instrument, and who has contributed significantly to the musical activities on campus.
ABRAHAM BEEKMAN COX, B.A. 1895 (1980). For the most promising and gifted composer in the junior class. It is expected that the prize money, or a portion thereof, shall be used to defray the expenses of performing a composition or compositions by the recipient on an occasion during his/her senior year. The Department of Music will assist the recipient with these arrangements.
FRIENDS OF MUSIC (1957). Friends of Music at Yale. To stimulate and recognize scholarship and creative imagination in the field of music. Awarded to that senior in any undergraduate department at Yale who has done distinguished work in an intensive major and who submits the best senior essay on a musical subject, or a musical composition exhibiting unusual originality and promise.
WREXHAM PRIZE IN MUSIC (1966). Manuscript Society (Wrexham Foundation, Inc.). To be awarded annually to that senior who, as a performer, has best exemplified the standards of Quincy Porter, B.A. 1919, Mus.B. 1921.
Near Eastern Languages and Literatures top
AMERICAN JEWISH CONGRESS. See under Religious Studies.
Peabody Museum top
GREG A. YAMANAKA SENIOR ESSAY PRIZE (2007). Sponsored by the Yale Club of New Haven. The prize is named for Greg A. Yamanaka, B.A. 1976, and honors his love of Yale and his wide range of interests, which included science, natural history, and art. Awarded to the best senior essay that makes use of the collections and/or archives and resources of the Yale Peabody Museum. Submissions, accompanied by a submissions form, should be received in the Director’s Office, Room 218, Yale Peabody Museum, no later than Friday, May 1, 2012, at 4 p.m. Forms can be obtained from the Peabody Office of Public Relations, Room 216, or by calling Melanie Brigockas at 203-432-5099, or e-mailing Peabody.pr@yale.edu using “Greg Yamanaka Prize” on the subject line.
Philosophy top
JACOB COOPER. See under Classics.
Physics top
DEFOREST PIONEERS (1960). Board of Directors of DeForest Pioneers, Inc., in honor of the outstanding scientific achievements of Lee DeForest, Ph.B. 1896. For a senior physics major for distinguished creative achievement in physics.
HOWARD L. SCHULTZ (1977). Howard L. Schultz, Ph.D. 1937. Awarded to an outstanding senior in the Physics department.
Political Science top
JAMES GORDON BENNETT (1893). James Gordon Bennett of New York City. For a senior essay in international relations.
PHILO SHERMAN BENNETT (1905). William Jennings Bryan, trustee under the will of Philo Sherman Bennett of New Haven. For a senior essay on political philosophy or theory.
CHARLES WASHBURN CLARK (1907). Charles W. Clark, B.A. 1875, to the University and the Kingsley Trust Association. For a Senior essay on political philosophy or theory.
PERCIVAL W. CLEMENT PRIZE (1994). Awarded to a junior or senior for the best thesis in the support of the principles of the Constitution of the United States of America and the first ten amendments. Also open to students in American Studies and History.
RONALD MELTZER/CORNELIA AWDZIEWICZ ECONOMICS AWARDS. See under Economics.
FRANK M. PATTERSON (1939). Frank M. Patterson, B.A. 1896. For a senior essay on the American political system. The balance of the annual income will be used for prizes awarded by the Department of Political Science to junior or sophomore majors on the basis of plans submitted in the spring of the year by these students for summer work-study programs.
WREXHAM PRIZE. See under Social Sciences.
Portuguese top
BILDNER PRIZES IN LATIN AMERICAN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES. See under Modern Languages.
Printing top
LOHMANN (1965). Friends of Carl A. Lohmann, B.A. 1910, Secretary of the University 1927-53. Awarded annually to the undergraduate who has produced the finest printing on the press of a residential college. The committee of award consists of a panel convened by the University Printer. For further information, consult John Gambell, University Printer.
Psychology top
ANGIER (1908). Roswell P. Angier, M.A. Hon. 1917, in honor of his father, Albert E. Angier. Since 1954 used as a prize for a senior showing exceptional performance in carrying out a research project in psychology.
ROBERT G. CROWDER UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH PRIZE (2005). For a graduating senior of Yale College who has completed an especially novel research project during his or her college years and who contributed to the quality of undergraduate life in the Department of Psychology through his or her generosity, service, and/or willingness to share learning and knowledge with other students.
Religious Studies top
AMERICAN JEWISH CONGRESS (1956). American Jewish Congress. To a senior in Yale College for scholarship in any field of Judaic Studies either for a paper submitted in competition or for course work and interest in the discipline over a period of years.
NANI PROVA DEB MEMORIAL PRIZE (2009). Awarded for the best senior undergraduate essay or graduate seminar paper on Asian religions.
NOYES-CUTTER (1926). Charles F. Cutter, B.A. 1875, in memory of his parents, Olive Lovejoy Noyes and Charles Cutter. For an undergraduate student who shows by examination the highest degree of excellence in “interpreting the Greek of the New Testament into modern English.”
OBERNAUER MEMORIAL (1982). To be awarded to a graduate or undergraduate for the best written and delivered essay on the most practical means of achieving good will among religious groups, particularly between Christians and Jews and/or between racial groups.
Russian top
SCOTT. See under Modern Languages.
Russian and East European Studies top
WOLFGANG LEONHARD PRIZE IN RUSSIAN AND EAST EUROPEAN STUDIES. Established by the gift of James Leitner, B.A. 1975, the prize honors a distinguished former member of the faculty in Russian and East European Studies. Awarded to the senior who has written the most outstanding senior essay related to Russia or East Europe. Submission deadline: April 22, 2013, 4:00 p.m. Submit essays by email to Marianne Lyden at marianne.lyden@yale.edu and hand-deliver 2 printed copies to MacMillan Center/Council on European Studies, 34 Hillhouse Avenue, Luce Hall, Room 342.
SCOTT. See under Modern Languages.
Slavic Languages and Literatures top
SCOTT. See under Modern Languages.
Social Sciences top
WREXHAM PRIZE (1992). Manuscript Society (Wrexham Foundation, Inc.), in memory of Senator Henry John Heinz III, B.A. 1960. For a senior essay or any major essay or piece of writing by an undergraduate in Yale College, in the field of the social sciences, politics, political economy and economics, and emphasizing the link between political and economic ideas, and analysis and public policy. For further information consult the Yale Dean’s Office.
Sociology top
MILDRED PRIEST FRANK MEMORIAL (1984). Established by Adam R. Rose, Class of 1981, in honor of his maternal grandmother. Awarded to the graduating senior whose work in the Department of Sociology reflects the standards of excellence and love of people that characterize Mildred Priest Frank.
Spanish top
BILDNER PRIZES IN LATIN AMERICAN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES. See under Modern Languages.
Theater Studies top
JAMES S. METCALFE (1914). James Stetson Metcalfe, B.A. 1879. For the best essay of about 3,000 words on an assigned subject dealing with the theater. Consult the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies top
LILY ROSEN PRIZE IN WOMEN’S HEALTH (2000). Awarded annually to an undergraduate in Yale College for the best essay that contributes to knowledge about women’s health. Essays may be in any field of the humanities or of the social, physical, or natural sciences and may deal with any aspect of or issue in women’s physical or mental health. Winning essay to be chosen by a subcommittee of the Women’s and Gender Studies Council.
STEERE PRIZE IN WOMEN’S STUDIES (1983). Awarded annually for the senior essay which best exemplifies advance in scholarship gained by focusing on women or gender roles and/or by employing feminist theory. Senior essays written by majors in any department as well as by Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies majors are eligible.
ELGA RUTH WASSERMAN AWARD (1994). Established by friends and colleagues to honor Elga Ruth Wasserman, who served from 1969 to 1973 as Special Assistant to the President on the Education of Women, ushering in co-education at Yale University. Awarded annually to a Yale undergraduate for a summer project, whether academic or activist, on women, gender, or a related topic.
Writing top
FRANCIS BERGEN MEMORIAL (1923). Frank Bergen in memory of his son, Francis Bergen, B.A. 1914. Awarded by the Yale Literary Magazine editors for the most creditable contribution to the volume now in course of publication. Consult Editors, Yale Literary Magazine, P.O. Box 209087 Yale Station.
1912 BOARD YALE NEWS (1928). William V. Griffin, B.A. 1912. For general excellence in reporting and writing for the News.
THERON ROCKWELL FIELD, 1889S (1957). Emilia R. (Mrs. Theron Rockwell) Field in memory of her husband. To be used for a yearly prize in poetry, literature, or religion. Open to any student enrolled in the University for a degree. Entries must be submitted to the Secretary’s Office, Woodbridge Hall, no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday April 12.
JOHN MORRISON MEMORIAL (1920). In memory of John Morrison, Ph.B. 1917. For the best art contribution in the Yale Record during the year. Consult Editor, Yale Record, 904-A Yale Station.
JOHN ADDISON PORTER (1872). Kingsley Trust Association in honor of Professor John A. Porter, B.A. 1842. For a work of scholarship in any field where it is possible, through original effort, to gather and relate facts or principles, or both, and to present the results in such a literary form as to make the product of general human interest. Competition open to all students regularly enrolled in the University as candidates for degrees. Entries must be submitted to the Secretary’s Office, Woodbridge Hall by a specific date in April (contact Erin Johnson at 432-2315 for the official due date).
SUISMAN REPORTING (1964). Suisman Foundation, Inc. (Michael Suisman, B.A. 1951). Awarded by the Chair of the Yale Daily News to the student editor of the News who does the most outstanding job of reporting during the year.
PETER J. WALLACE (1964). Mike Wallace, Norma Kaphan (Mrs. William) Leonard—parents of Peter J. Wallace—other members of the Wallace family, friends, and classmates in memory of Peter J. Wallace, Class of 1964, who was killed in August, 1962, while mountain climbing in Greece. To be used for a prize in creative writing. The Board of the Yale Daily News is to select the committee which will judge the stories submitted.
