The George Wharton Pepper Prize

The George Wharton Pepper Prize, awarded annually to the senior “who most nearly represents the Lafayette ideal,” was established in 1923 by George Wharton Pepper H’22, a United States Senator from Pennsylvania, an attorney, and a founding member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

Recipients reflect Sen. Pepper’s vision of a well-rounded, educated member of the senior class who adds to a sound academic record noteworthy participation in college activities and student life, which contribute to the advancement of the College on and off campus. Academic brilliance or athletic prowess alone is not the criterion.

Any member of the Lafayette community can nominate a senior for this award. A group of nominees is selected by a faculty and student committee. All voting faculty, full time administrators and the student body are invited to vote for the final recipient of the Pepper Prize.

Apply

The application period begins February 28, 2020 and ends March 30, 2020 at midnight. The application period was extended one week due to the disruption that the COVID-19 campus shutdown has caused students. Applications are for seniors only and any senior can apply with or without a nomination.

Pepper Prize Application 2020

Nominate a Senior

Please nominate the students (seniors only) you believe most exemplify the Lafayette ideal. Students from the class of 2020 are also invited to nominate themselves. Nominations begin February 28, 2020 and end March 13, 2020 at noon.

Pepper Prize 2020 Nominations