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Wellesley’s highest accolade is given annually to graduates of distinction, who through their achievements, have brought honor to themselves and the College.

During this year’s annual meeting, we wanted to highlight a true trailblazer - Dr. Harriet Rice, the first woman of African descent to graduate from Wellesley College. Rice was born just one year after the Civil War ended in 1866. A talented student, Rice achieved the highest class ranking in Greek at Newport’s racially integrated Rogers High School. After graduating in 1882, she matriculated at Wellesley a year later and was one of only three black students.

During Ethos’ 50^th anniversary celebrations, alumnae representing the five decades of Ethos’ history came together to reflect upon their experiences as women of color at Wellesley. Part of the College’s StoryCorps series, the podcast captures conversations between fellow classmates and good friends.