Graduate Studies

Joyce W. Lawrence (Athena) Award

This award was established to honor graduate students for excellence in the area of research, scholarship, and professional development.

Application Information

A letter describing the student’s plan for using award funds for research, scholarly or creative activity, or professional development. The workshop or institute or conference brochure must be included if the student is requesting the award for professional development.
A letter of endorsement from an academic mentor (thesis, dissertation, or product of learning mentor) or program director. The letter must be submitted in a sealed envelope which has been signed across the seal by the author.

Selection Criteria

When reviewing applicants for this award, reviewers will consider the following:

Evidence of scholarly excellence on the part of the student e.g., recipients of prior awards
The quality of the proposal submitted, e.g., clarity of presentation, significance of work/professional development proposed, creativity and originality in the proposal
Consideration should be given to the impact of this award on the recipient’s career. Will receipt of the award make a real difference?
Consideration may be given to need-based requests as they relate to scholarship or professional development.

Deadline: October 15

Donor: The Lawrence Family/Friends and former students

Past Recipients:

1997            Amalie Walker Hinson, School of Music
1998            Candace Marie Brennan, English
1999            Adina C. Watkins, Leadership & Educational Studies
2000            Award Not Given
2001            Claire Bird, Biology
2002            Monica Lindsey, Biology
2003            Award Not Given
2004            Ashley Angliss, Psychology
2005            James Dobson, Geography & Planning
2006            Jorge Esquivel, Biology
2007            Nicole Rieselman, Leadership and Educational Studies