14 seniors named Winthrop Scholars

Continuing a tradition that dates back to 1928, Connecticut College has honored 14 seniors as Winthrop Scholars.

The designation of Winthrop Scholar is the highest academic honor bestowed by the College. Reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional scholarship, the honor is named for John Winthrop the Younger, who founded the city of New London and served as governor of Connecticut. 

Winthrop Scholars are also the first members of their class selected for membership in Phi Beta Kappa, the national honor society of undergraduate higher education.

At a Feb. 23 ceremony recognizing the scholars, President Katherine Bergeron said she was honored to celebrate the “newest members of the oldest honor society” in the United States.

“It’s a special honor to be inducted into Phi Beta Kappa,” the president told the scholars. “This is a network that is going to sustain you in your life after Connecticut College.” 

Joyce Bennett, assistant professor of anthropology, delivered the ceremony’s keynote address. She told the students about how an exchange with three men from an indigenous culture in Mexico piqued her interest in indigenous languages and led her down a winding path to a career in anthropology.

“Be on the lookout for your own moments that make you question everything around you,” she said. “Follow your interests and put your extraordinary talents to good use.”