Jeanne Burkle Award
After her death from cancer in 1985, her family and friends raised funds to establish an award in her name. The first Jeanne Burkle Award was given in 1987. Initially intended to honor “the female student who, during her time at 51²è¹İapp College, has made the greatest contribution academically and/or non-academically to women’s studies and the well-being of women,†the parameters of the award have since been expanded to reflect the changing discipline of women’s studies. Today, the award is made at commencement to a graduating student who, in academic and co-curricular activities, has “advanced the cause of women and gender equality.†The award usually is given in the amount of $1,000.
For more information about the award, how to apply, along with a list of past award recipients, go to:
Johanna Meehan Prize for Theoretical Work in Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies (GWSS)
This $500 prize will be awarded each spring semester for an exemplary essay that engages with feminist theory, queer theory, critical race theory, or another theoretical body of work in GWSS. The essay must have been written for a class or other academic credit during the previous calendar year. (For example: the inaugural 2025 award will be given to an essay written in 2024.) Essays must be nominated and submitted by a faculty member, with permission from the student.
For more information about the award, including how to nominate work, go to:
Past award recipients:
2025: TBA
Scott-Noun Award for Racial Justice
The Scott-Noun Award for Racial Justice was established in honor of Kesho Scott, Ph.D., for her many distinguished achievements and ongoing work to promote racial justice using an intersectional approach. Reflecting the program’s support for intersectional student engagement and activism, the Scott-Noun Award is presented at Commencement to one or more students who have demonstrated a commitment to service, activism, cultural, or other extra-curricular engagement to fight for racial justice and equity. Awards are made in the amount of up to $1000.
For more information about the award, and how to apply, go to:
Past award recipients:
2024: Evelynn Coffie
2023: Loyal Terry
2022: Kendrionne Anderson
2021: Jennifer Rodrigues Santos; Honorable Mentions – Ahon Gooptu & Rebecca Villa