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Great Conversation program selects 'student of the year'

David Gonnerman '90
April 18, 2003

Chris Schifani
Schifani
Christopher Schifani, a sophomore from Albuquerque, N.M., was named "Student of the Year" on April 9 by professors who teach in The Great Conversation program at St. Olaf College. The program, which focuses on the epochs of Western literature, was launched at the college more than two decades ago.

?In celebrating [this student],? said Professor of Religion and Director of The Great Conversation Edmund Santurri, ?we celebrate an individual as a representative of a community that has formed over two years and five courses led by a remarkable group of teachers.? Schifani said the award reminded him "that I have something to learn from everyone as much as to contribute.?

In addition to academic achievement, criteria for the scholarship award include a demonstrated love of the great works, ideas and artistic moments of the Western tradition; dexterity of mind that allows for critical reflection; and enjoyment of ?conversation? about the great works and ideas in a way that promotes intellectual exchange and community. To read more about The Great Conversation, see the article from the winter 2002 issue of St. Olaf Magazine.

Contact David Gonnerman at 507-786-3315 or gonnermd@stolaf.edu.