Dean's Scholars demonstrate an exceptional commitment to public service and extraordinary academic achievement and leadership potential. Honoring the memory of Professor Elizabeth Durbin, a gifted teacher, fierce social activist and a champion for the rights of women and minorities, Durbin Scholars have outstanding academic records and high professional aspirations. Final determination is made through an interview process. GA awards convert to Dean's Scholarships in the second year of study. As such, eligibility and the number of positions varies from year to year based on project needs.
Final determination is made through an interview process.
Unlike the GA awards, RAs do not convert to Dean's Scholarships in the second year of study. Created in recognition of Judge Tenney, who was a close friend of Robert F. Wagner and served as Deputy Mayor during Wagner's administration as Mayor of New York City, Tenney Scholars demonstrate interest in the public sector and potential for high quality work. Family and friends felt it fitting to create a scholarship dedicated to a woman who combined a record of academic excellence with a capacity for leadership in public service. This fellowship honors Robert C. Weaver who was appointed by President Lyndon Johnson as the first Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development and was the first African-American to hold a cabinet level position. Dr. Weaver is also the second African-American to receive a doctorate in economics in the United States.