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The Dartmouth
July 20, 2025 | Latest Issue
The Dartmouth

As a 'notable junior,' Davis wins annual Cardozo prize

Michelle Davis '07 receives the Cardozo award on Monday for her involvement in many aspects of campus life.
Michelle Davis '07 receives the Cardozo award on Monday for her involvement in many aspects of campus life.

Davis' first reaction on entering the reception showed her shock at receiving the award.

"That's my mom!" Davis shouted, surprised by the presence of her mother at the ceremony. "Hi, Mom!"

Established in 1978 by the classmates, parents and friends of Ranny B. Cardozo '78 in memory of the former Dartmouth student who died during his junior year at the College, the award seeks to reward a member of the junior class for his or her "academic enthusiasm, genuine concern for... fellow classmates, and energetic participation in campus and community activities," said Joan Levy, assistant to Lisa Thum, the 2007 Class Dean.

Matthew Lemberger '06, last year's winner, presented Davis with her award.

In a short speech during the ceremony, Lemberger described the factors that led to Davis' recognition. An active member of Black Praxis, Dartmouth's African-American political and literary publication, she has breathed new life into the publication with her enthusiasm, Lemberger said. Davis has served as an intern in the Baltimore City Public School System and at the Center for Study of Social Policy.

Davis has also served as a member of the Committee on Standards, and through Dartmouth's Speak Out program she helped to jump-start dialogues between different communities on campus. She has also been to Juarez, Mexico, on two service trips.

"Michelle stands out for the breadth of her commitment to learning and community as well as for the spirit of inclusion that has characterized her many contributions to Dartmouth," Lemberger said.

"Classmates look to Michelle for advice and perspectives. Her infectious personality and genuine concern for other people has earned her the respect of her peers. Michelle's care for others is at the heart of her participation in campus and community activities. She shines with a can-do attitude that inspires others."

The award comes with an engraved silver plate, a set of mint julep glasses meant to signify friendship and charity as well as Cardozo's Southern roots and a small cash award. Davis' name will also be inscribed on a plaque with past Cardozo prize winners.

Potential winners can be nominated by any junior student, faculty member or administrator. A council of seniors organized by the previous year's winner decides on the eventual recipient. There were 10 nominees this year.

Samantha Ivery, Advisor to Black Students at the Office of Pluralism and Leadership, nominated Davis for the honor. Ivery said she has been consistently impressed by Davis in the year that she has known her.

"She is articulate, she is passionate and she is one of the few students who I have met who actually lives the values that she has," Ivery said. "When you see her, you get this infectious smile and this hug that you wouldn't think a woman that tiny had that kind of strength... she's a leader who leads by example."

Davis' friends conspired to keep the secret from her, and according to Davis they had to be creative.

"I was told Barack Obama was going to be here. I was really excited. But it was a lie," Davis said laughing. "I am so honored to receive this, though. I had no idea."