Rena Ratte and American Association of University Women

The Rena Ratte Memorial Award and the American Association of University Women Senior Woman Award recognize Lewis & Clark graduating seniors for their outstanding scholarship. In nominating students, departments are asked to recommend those students they feel are worthy of the College’s highest academic recognition. Please note that a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 is required for both awards.

The Rena J. Ratte Memorial Award was established in 1970 by the colleagues, students, and friends of the late Rena J. Ratte, a distinguished philosopher and a highly esteemed professor at the College. This award honors the pursuit of excellence that Professor Ratte encouraged. It is the highest academic award given at Lewis & Clark and is given annually to an undergraduate of senior standing whose abilities and commitment have combined to produce work which is consistently of the greatest distinction.

The AAUW Senior Woman Recognition Award is given annually to a senior woman of outstanding scholarship, character, personality, contributions to campus and community life, and potential for future achievement. This award is given at colleges and universities holding corporate membership in the AAUW. The award encourages women to become members of the AAUW upon graduation.

The students who receive a nomination will be notified and asked to provide letters of recommendation as well as other supporting documents. The Honors Subcommittee will screen the Rena Ratte nominee applications and then interview finalists. The AAUW faculty committee will screen nominee applications and interview finalists for that award. These awards are presented annually to students at the Honors Convocation preceding Commencement.