“Peter was the history major, the social activist, leader of the campus chapter of Amnesty International, the brooder on social ills. He cared, he paid attention, he voted. After he graduated he spent time tutoring at his former elementary school. In a nation of citizens turning away from politics, from voting, from caring—even from reality—Peter was the antidote” (Stephen Basset, http://www.paradigmresearchgroup.org/Article_Archive/UFO%20Magazine%20-%2010-18-04/Exopolitical%20Column%2010-18-04.html).
These words describe Peter Morgenstern-Clarren ’03, who devoted himself to social justice while at Wesleyan. In addition to leading Amnesty International, he participated in the United Student and Labor Action Coalition and worked to secure benefits for Wesleyan custodial staff. His legacy exemplifies the rich legacy of activism on our campus, a legacy that continues to thrive as students work for a better world on and off campus.
For me, this activist tradition is one of Wesleyan’s best features. So many students here refuse to limit our critical thinking, hard work, and perseverance to the classroom, and steadfastly do whatever we can to improve the world. Wes students pursue justice within our student community, in the Middletown community, nationally, and globally, and constantly think of innovative ways to build connections and gather people together around important issues. Many of us not only admire and continue the work of previous generations of students, but expand these efforts or dive into something entirely new.
If you are passionate about this kind of work, I heartily encourage you to apply for the Peter Morgenstern-Clarren ’03 Social Justice Award. As last year’s winner and as a member of the Wesleyan community, I am very grateful to Dr. Hadley Morgenstern-Clarren and The Honorable Pat Morgenstern-Clarren for their generosity in sponsoring this award that honors their son’s memory and his activism for the public good. The award, which comes with a financial prize of $1500, recognizes students who work tirelessly and creatively to right the wrongs they see in the world, and who create bridges among different groups in this pursuit. Sophomores and Juniors in good standing are encouraged to apply, and the award committee will select the applicant who best embodies the pursuit of social justice.
There is also a Peter Morgenstern-Clarren ’03 Employee Recognition Award, which honors and thanks the people whose everyday work helps the students at Wesleyan. Students and staff can submit nominations, and eligible employees include custodians, dining staff, grounds crew, and building maintenance staff.
Applications for both awards are due on February 28th. If you have any questions about the scholarship or the application process, please feel free to contact Dean Marina Melendez, mmelendex@wesleyan.edu or me, astout@wesleyan.edu.
Stout is a member of the class of 2012.
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