Future policymakers, anthropologists, sociologists, musicians and scientists are among the 15 sophomores recently named Proudian Interdisciplinary Honors Scholars.
“Proudian is about building a cross-campus, interdisciplinary community of high-achieving, intellectually ambitious students who study, learn and experience together, on campus and off,” says Kathy Feeley, associate professor of history and director of the program.
Biology major San Tun ’19, who is working toward a medical degree and specialty in oncology, plans to combine study of biology and psychology, “more specifically, the impact of a life-changing diagnosis, such as cancer, on a patient’s family.”
Through the Johnston Center, Selena Phelps ’19 has designed a major in anthrozoology—the study of the human/animal interactions and their implications: “There are biological, social and ethical components, as well as representation of animal-related topics, in writing,” she says.
The Proudian Scholars program was founded in 1977 through a contribution from Andrew and Sallee Proudian to honor Andrew’s father, Vahe Proudian. Scholars participate in interdisciplinary seminars and symposia during their sophomore year, possible study abroad in their junior year and thesis preparation and presentation in their senior year.
In addition to Tun and Phelps, the newest class of Proudian Scholars includes Louis Castillo, Sera Gearhart, Rowan Harrity, Hannah Henry, Xiadani Juarez Diaz, Chryse Kruse, Allie Kuroff, Meg Marcum, Aya Musleh, Anna Rusignuolo, Anastasia Smith, Lidya Stamper and Erin Wiens St. John (all nine class of ’19).
