Congratulations to Politics & International Relations Students on Commencement Awards and Honors
Students were recognized for academic achievements, research, and global engagement.
Each year, the Department of Politics and International Relations honors particularly accomplished graduates majoring in Politics or International Relations with several awards. This year, at a student gathering on May 4, the department announced the following awards:
For distinguished Honors thesis, Abigail Peabody received the Professor Eugene H. Miller Prize for their thesis, Candidate Emergence Among Women: Responsibility to Run. As a Melrose Fellow, they have demonstrated a strong commitment to service, civic engagement, academic achievement, and leadership. Abby graduated as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, the prestigious honors society.
For outstanding research and academic achievements, the department awarded Joshua Grahame the Heller Prize. In addition to exceptional coursework, Joshua earned interdisciplinary Honors in Politics & Applied Economics for his thesis, Feed-in Tariffs and Sustainable Energy: Why Different OECD Governments Support Sustainable Energy at Different Rates Through Feed-in Tariffs. Joshua graduated as a member of Phi Beta Kappa.
For outstanding coursework and academic achievements, the department awarded Brandon Slaboda the Heller Prize. In addition to his excellent grades, Brandon serves as a Green Building Fellow, working to educate students, faculty, and staff on environmental issues and implement projects around campus. Brandon graduated as a member of Phi Beta Kappa.
Emelyn Rodriguez was awarded the Joseph H. Melrose Jr. Prize for her strong academic work, concern for the overlooked, and global perspective. Emelyn conducted Honors research that led to her thesis, What Role Do Women in Politics Play for Democratic Erosion?
Jalen Everette, president of the Ursinus College Student Government, was honored with the Award for Student Leadership in Politics. During his career at Ursinus, Jalen served in student government and dedicated an enormous amount of time and service to the college, especially during emergency situations.
The Department of Politics & International Relations is proud of all of its graduating members of the class of 2022!