Outstanding students from the Faculty of Humanities were recognized for their achievements at the 25th annual Awards Assembly in Convocation Hall on Friday, Feb. 3.

The awards, including scholarships, essay prizes and Dean's Honour List certificates, were presented to students by the associate dean Suzanne Crosta, and John Ferns, chair of the Undergraduate Awards Committee.

“I think it's a really valuable part of the Faculty,” says Ferns of the ceremony. “It really brings people together and recognizes their achievements, so I hope that it will always continue.”

Award-winning professor Anna Moro, of the Department of Modern Languages and Linguistics, was the guest speaker. The student address was given by honours classics and history student Laura Banducci, who this year received one of the University's most prestigious accolades: the Chancellor's Gold Medal. Music was provided by the McMaster Wind Ensemble, music student Chi Yan Lai, and Christine Han, winner of the 2005 Bedford Medal for Piano Performance.

Danielle Smith, a third-year honours music and French student, says that right from the start she has felt encouraged to excel in her program. “That's why I chose to come to McMaster,” she says. “Everyone was very encouraging, and I felt like I wanted to do well.”

A reception for faculty, students and guests was held after the ceremony in the Great Hall of the University Club.