Trinity College began the tradition of Honors Day in the spring of 1950, introducing an occasion when the College recognized students for outstanding achievements in academics, community service, and leadership at the close of the academic year.
At the 75th Honors Day ceremony—held in the Chapel on May 1—President Daniel G. Lugo said, “Since its founding, Trinity has been guided by the conviction that education is transformative—that it not only shapes individual lives but also equips graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. That conviction endures in the achievements we recognize today.”
Lugo added that the accomplishments of the more than 280 students being recognized “reflect the very best of the institution: distinction in scholarship, depth of intellectual curiosity, creativity in thought and expression, and a sustained commitment to service and community.”
Before she introduced the first awards, Sonia Cardenas, provost and dean of faculty and Scott M. Johnson ’97 Distinguished Professor of Political Science, noted the unique nature of the mementos presented to students at Honors Day 2026. “This year, instead of a certificate, you will receive a piece of Trinity history: slate from the original Long Walk roof, dating to the 1870s,” she said. “Each piece was etched at The Hatchery located right here on campus [in the Raether Library and Information Technology Center], creating a keepsake connecting today’s honorees to generations of scholars who came before them.”
Dozens of student awards were presented by faculty and staff members representing academic departments and College offices. See the full list of Honors Day prizes and student recipients.
View and download photos of the award recipients.
A video recording of the ceremony is below.
Hundreds of Trinity College students spent the summer exploring potential careers as they gained practical skills through wide-ranging internships. Read about the highlights and lessons that six Trinity students took from their experiences.
Birdie Stark ’26 reflects on her experience as a first-year seminar mentor: “We help students navigate both the academic and personal dimensions of college life—our role extends far beyond the classroom.”
Trinity College students participating in this summer’s eight-week Summit to Wall Street program are developing skills that they can use to pursue careers in finance.
Breanna Pitta ’27 and Carla Schmidt ’27 were selected for the yearlong National Environmental Leadership Fellowship by the Rachel Carson Council to support environmental action in their communities.
