The Community Development and Applied Economics (CDAE) Department proudly recognized the achievements of its graduating seniors at the inaugural Thomas F. Patterson Honors Day, held on April 10, 2026, at the Alumni House. This newly named celebration honors the legacy of Thomas F. Patterson while highlighting the academic excellence, leadership, and community impact of CDAE’s Class of 2026.
“This inaugural Honors Day reflects the values that Tom Patterson championed: academic rigor, community engagement, and a deep commitment to students,” said Dr. David Conner, CDAE professor. “It’s especially meaningful to celebrate a new generation of graduates who carry those values forward in such impactful ways.”
Scholastic Achievement Award Recipients
Recognizing students in the top ten percent of their major:
- Community Entrepreneurship (CENT): Audrey Logan Booras, Samantha Taylor
- Community Media & Journalism (PCOM): Ainsley Elisabeth Hubbard, Max Handelman, Annalisa Madonia, Jessica Fulmer
- Strategic Communication (PCOM): Sage Lepore, Anna Caruso, Chloe Spence, Grace Dusenberry
- Communication Design (PCOM): Catherine Spagnola, Eleanor O’Sullivan
- Community & International Development (CID): Olivia Frances Sauvé, Brooke Glasson
- Community-Centered Design (CCD): Sam Keller, Sophia Slesar
Major Award Recipients
Honoring outstanding graduating seniors selected by faculty:
- Community & International Development: Olivia Frances Sauvé, Brooke Glasson
- Community Entrepreneurship: Audrey Logan Booras, Catherine McGonagle
- Community Media & Journalism: Max Handelman, Annalisa Madonia
- Strategic Communication: Chloe Ruggio
- Communication Design: Elle F. Littlefield
- Community-Centered Design: Emma Crossley, Lizzie Maklad
Special Awards
- Engaged Scholar Award: Sam Keller, Emily Jones
- CDAE Ambassador Award: Eliot Barrengos
- Thomas F. Patterson, Jr., Teaching Assistant Award: Aidan Holmes, James Mazzalupo, Sophia Slesar
The Thomas F. Patterson Honors Day marks a new chapter for CDAE, bringing together students, families, and the university community to celebrate the accomplishments and future promise of its graduates.