Scholars’ talents are diverse

Fifteen Connecticut College seniors have been named Winthrop Scholars, the highest academic honor bestowed by the College. All have also been chosen for membership in Phi Beta Kappa and will be initiated officially in May.

The students and their majors are: Anne S. Bider, philosophy, Ida Charlotte Bothe, economics; Stephanie L. Cardoos, psychology/sociology; Christopher J. Chand, East Asian studies/economics; Md. Yaseen Choudhury, economics/mathematics; Christopher J. Devine, English/government; Ly Huong Dinh, economics; Sijia Hu, computer science/economics/mathematics; William A. Imbrie, international relations (self-designed); Sarah H. King, Hispanic studies/international relations; Caroline Elise Martin, dance;  James Andrew Newton, architectural studies; Bryanne Elizabeth Robson, biology; Muhammad Fahad Shams, computer science/economics/mathematics; and Jason N. Siebenthall, body, gender, and media studies (self-designed)/French.

“Winthrop Scholars include our top students based on their academic record,” said John Anthony, associate professor of music and president of the Connecticut College Phi Beta Kappa chapter. “They are diverse, and they are talented in many areas. We are very proud of them.”

Faculty, parents and friends attended the Nov. 30 ceremony. Kamau Birago, assistant professor of sociology and a chapter member, gave a speech titled, “The Road Less Traveled.” President Norman Fainstein also addressed the students.

In 1928, 17 years after Connecticut College was founded, the practice of honoring Winthrop Scholars — those of the senior class who demonstrated exceptional scholarship, personal fitness and promise — was begun. The honor was named after John Winthrop, founder of New London and a governor of Connecticut.