Honors, Prizes and Awards
Recognizing academic excellence and leadership
Anthropology students at UB are recognized for strong academics, research, leadership and service through university, college and departmental awards. Recipients are announced during the spring semester and honored at university and department award celebrations.
These awards recognize exceptional achievement across the university and the SUNY system.
SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence
The highest student honor in the SUNY system. UB nominates candidates based on academic achievement and involvement, with final selection made at the SUNY level.
Outstanding Senior Award
Presented to an outstanding graduating senior in the College of Arts and Sciences. Candidates are selected based on GPA and service to the university and community.
These awards recognize students who have made meaningful contributions to the Department of Anthropology. Recipients are selected by the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Undergraduate Committee.
Leadership Award
Presented to an undergraduate student who has demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to the Department of Anthropology.
Lucia Maria Houpt Award
Awarded to the outstanding graduating senior in anthropology, based on GPA, departmental involvement and university service.
Marion Dickson Scholarship for Outstanding Junior
Presented to a junior with strong academic performance and meaningful service to the department.
Faculty and students may submit nominations during the spring semester. Self-nominations are encouraged. Final selections are made by the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Undergraduate Committee.
Klein Family Student Scholarship
This scholarship supports anthropology majors who demonstrate academic promise and plan to pursue graduate study in a health or medical field.
Award details:
- Two awards of $3,500 each
- Preference given to full-time students with senior standing
- Students must be enrolled at UB during the next academic year
Additional note:
UB undergraduates planning to attend a UB graduate program in a health or medical field may also be considered.
Undergraduate Professional Activities and Achievements Award
Awarded to a senior anthropology major who combines strong academic achievement with outstanding professional engagement.
Professional activities may include:
- Presenting at anthropology conferences
- Conducting advanced independent research
- Leadership in anthropology-related student organizations
- Professional-level service to the department
Award amount: $200
In addition to awards, anthropology students may receive formal academic distinctions.
Latin honors
Latin honors are awarded by UB at graduation:
Cum laude: GPA of 3.2
Magna cum laude: GPA of 3.5
Summa cum laude: GPA of 3.75
Honors in Anthropology
Students may earn Honors in Anthropology by maintaining an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher and completing a senior honors thesis.
Phi Beta Kappa
Phi Beta Kappa is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious liberal arts honors society. Outstanding junior and senior students are elected by the Omicron Chapter at UB based on academic excellence and breadth of study.
Awards and honors recognize the work you put into your education and can strengthen graduate school and career opportunities. Students are encouraged to stay engaged, ask questions and pursue opportunities early.
For questions about honors, prizes and awards in anthropology:
