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Awards and Recognition

students receiving an award

There are several prestigious awards which recognize the achievements and contributions of members of the Swarthmore Black community. All awards are exhibited in the Black Cultural Center Robinson House.

Awards and Prizes

The Black Alumni Prize

First presented in 1986 and sponsored by Swarthmore's Black Alumni, it is awarded annually to honor the sophomore or junior Black student(s) who has shown exemplary academic performance and community service.

James H. Batton '72 Award

Endowed in the memory of James H. Batton '72 by G. Isaac Stanley '73 and Ava Harris Stanley, MD '72, it is awarded to the student(s) who has demonstrated personal growth or career development.

Kathyrn L. Morgan

Kathyrn L. Morgan Award

Given in honor of one of the Black community's most cherished and revered elders, this award is given periodically to an adult member of the Swarthmore College community in recognition of their significant contributions to the lives of African Americans at the College; learn more about the recipients. These contributions may be in the areas of scholarship, professional services, student life, or mentoring. Inaugurated in 1992. 

Jerry Wood

Jerry Wood Memorial Excellence and Leadership Award

Presented in commemoration of this ancestor's commitment to the Black Community, recognizes the student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, scholarship and has made a significant contribution to the Africana Community. Inaugurated in 2000.

The Black Cultural Center Freshmen of the Year Award

Acknowledges a first year student(s), who has been an exceptional leader and made significant contributions to the Black community. Inaugurated in 2000.

The Black Cultural Center Leadership Award

Commends the graduating senior(s) who sustained the legacy of Black student leadership through representative and constructive activism. Inaugurated in 2000.

The Black Cultural Center's Director's Special Recognition Award

Given to those students who have proudly represented the Black community to the campus. Inaugurated in 2000.

chuck james

The Chuck James Literary Prize

Awarded to the graduating senior who has made the greatest contribution to the literary life of the Black Community. Inaugurated in 2005.