Awards and Honors
Each year, the Economics Department awards several prizes as well as thesis honors.
Prizes
Christian A. Johnson Prize in Economics
Established in 1998 by the Christian A. Johnson Endeavor Foundation. Awarded to the student graduating with the highest grade point average in economics.
2026 Recipients:
See Past Recipients.
D.K. Smith Economics Prize
Established in 2007 by his family and friends in memory of Professor D.K. Smith. Awarded to a student who writes the best senior thesis in the Economics Department.
2025 Recipient: Danqing (Helena) Gu
See Past Recipients.
F.C. Dirks Prize in Economics
Established in 1985 by friends wishing to honor the internationally distinguished accomplishments of Dr. Frederick C. Dirks ’30 (retired former senior advisor with the International Monetary Fund) on the occasion of his 55th Reunion. This prize is awarded each year to a senior who, through academic achievement and activities pursued at Middlebury, has demonstrated high promise for leadership and success in economics and public service.
2025 Recipient: Onat Birsen
See Past Recipients.
Harry M. Fife Memorial Prize
Established in 1950 in memory of Harry M. Fife, professor of economics, 1925–1950. Awarded to the senior who combines excellence in economics with contributions to the spirit of Middlebury through participation in extracurricular activities.
2025 Recipients: Elizaveta (Liza) Grebenkina
See Past Recipients.