School of Humanities AWARDS

Department of History

The Leo for Excellence in History Studies: DOMINIC DOWNS

Dominic came to Rochester University as a transfer student to play baseball, and has become a dedicated and accomplished student as well as athlete and coach. In numerous history courses at RU over the past three years, Dominic has demonstrated excellence and insight in written work, classroom commentary, and even role-play. I am delighted that Dominic is pursuing a career in Secondary Social Studies Education and heartily concur with a colleague in the education department: “He will be a wonderful teacher, I have no doubt!” Congratulations, Dominic, on being this year’s recipient of the “Leo” Award for Excellence in History Studies!

Department of Interdisciplinary Studies

Outstanding Graduate in Interdisciplinary Studies:

Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance

IDA Performance Award: COURTNEY CRONIN

Courtney Cronin is a true artist with talents in singing, acting, design, fine arts, and painting, and has served the department in any way she is asked. She is well known on campus for her positivity and ability to lift up her fellow artists in times of distress. She has inspired her professors and her peers through her ability to persevere through adversity, and always looks for ways to give back to others. She has served the RU community through her recruiting efforts with prospective students and by performing for Warrior Fridays and for the President's Circle of Honor. She leads quietly by example and in humility. Early in her college career she took small roles and understudy roles and embraced opportunities to learn from upperclassmen and professionals. A constant voracious learner, she accepts what she doesn't know and challenges herself to learn something new. Plans are underway to bring Courtney on as an assistant Artistic director of RU's professional company. We look forward to working with her in the future.

IDS Technical Award: RACHEL CORP

This year Rachel served the theatre department and School of Humanities as a part-time employee while finishing her senior year as a theatre management major. Rachel was able to accomplish this dual role because of her strong academic skills, work ethic, and ability to remain calm under pressure. Rachel has the ability to think ahead and plan for possible problems before they become problems. She works independently, taking charge while being responsive to direction. She doesn't just solve problems; she looks for challenges! While assisting faculty members with management load of production, she has also discovered a passion for teaching, experiencing joy watching students have those "light bulb" moments in rehearsal and in mentoring younger, more inexperienced students. Professionals outside of RU have taken notice also, one assuming she was a graduate assistant, and another saying, "Her demeanor is at once no-nonsense and caring, a perfect combination for a professional stage manager." Normally, we would say how much she will be missed, but we are happy to say that Rachel will continue to serve RU as a full-time department employee.