SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – Union College held its annual Prize Day on Saturday, with Union College student-athletes combining to earn nine honors in recognition of their academic success. Four Union varsity sports were represented with at least one award, with members of the men's crew and women's tennis teams earning three honors apiece, as well as two honors for a member of the football team and one from the women's lacrosse team.
The campus community gathered in Memorial Chapel to watch more than 100 prizes be awarded to honor students for achievement in academics, leadership and community service.
In addition to President Elizabeth Kiss, the Prize Day ceremony featured remarks from Michele Angrist, the Stephen J. and Diane K. Ciesinski Dean of Faculty and vice president for Academic Affairs; Annette Diorio, vice president for Student Affairs and Dean of Students; Robin Olinsky, dean for the Class of 2026; and Kara Doyle, dean of Academic Departments and Programs. Kassandra Smeltzer '27, president of Student Forum, served as master of ceremonies.
David Brind (1982) Memorial Book Prize in English – To one or more outstanding senior students in English.
Isaiah Russell (Football)
John R. Glover Prize for Black & White Photography – For excellence in black-and-white photography.
Ben Stern (Men's Crew)
Alvin F. Nitchman (1924) Prize – To the most promising senior who plans to attend law school.
Sydney Alphabet (Women's Tennis)
Charles B. Hurd Prize – To an outstanding student pursuing coursework in physical chemistry.
Erik Roberts (Men's Crew)
Bruce M. Garber (1971) Prize – To the student who best exemplifies the qualities of personal integrity and humane concern for the future practice of medicine or dentistry.
Erik Roberts (Men's Crew)
Ronald M. Oberzinger (1961) Prize – To a premedical student who is selected for high academic merit and personal worthiness.
Rosie Crooker (Women's Lacrosse)
The Lee, William, Dr. Norman '43 and Dr. George '53 Wrubel Memorial Prize – To a senior preparing for dentistry or medicine, based on both academic achievement and character.
Kennedy Alexis (Women's Tennis)
Andrew W. Archibald (1872) Prize – To the senior earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with the highest scholastic standing.
Skylar Semon (Women's Tennis)
Albert Hill Recognition Award – To the senior who has held leadership positions and demonstrated exceptional commitment to enhancing the College community.
Isaiah Russell (Football)
For a full list of 2026 Prize Day winners, visit
https://www.union.edu/news/stories/202605/prize-day-winners
