AWARDS

Madeline Nesbit

"I am deeply honored to receive the Edward Sutherland Medallion of Excellence in Criminology. Through my studies in both criminology and history, I have come to understand the profound interconnectedness of crime, justice, and inequality. I have learned to think critically about the structures that shape our criminal justice system and society, examining the ways systemic racism, class inequality, and entrenched prejudice continue to influence these institutions today. I will carry these lessons with me to law school and throughout my career, striving to approach every circumstance with compassion, nuance, and a commitment to justice grounded in the education I received at Villanova."

Ainsley Payne

"It is an incredible honor to be this year's recipient of the W.E.B Du Bois Medallion of Excellence in Sociology. The field of Sociology is one I hold dearly. Throughout my undergraduate career this department has consistently pushed me to think critically and recognize the power dynamics that shape the society that influences us all. Such skills have not only helped inform my decision to pursue a career in Public Health but has more importantly shaped who I am as a person. I will forever be appreciative of my professors and peers who have helped guide me to where I am today. Going forward, I am eager to apply what I have learned from the Sociology and Criminology department in my graduate education, and eventually my work as a healthcare provider." 

Ella Mattocks

"I am honored to have received the Lawrence J. McGarry Award. I can truly say that I have found my academic passion for Criminology and Sociology at this school. Through my academic coursework, I have been challenged to think critically about systemic inequities and understand them on a deeper and more complex level. As a result of this newfound passion, I interned for the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office in the Juvenile Diversion Unit where I did research on the correlation between education and juvenile justice system involvement. I am forever grateful for my professors who have nurtured this passion and helped me grow in more ways than I can comprehend. Thank you a million times over!"