Celebrating 50 Years of Honors
Since 1976, UD Honors has challenged ambitious students to think deeply, lead boldly and shape what comes next.
A Message From The Dean
For 50 years, Honors at UD has been defined by one simple idea: When you bring together highly motivated students and challenge them to think deeply, collaborate meaningfully and lead with purpose, the results extend far beyond the classroom.
Honors is where students learn to ask insightful questions.
Where they leverage their curiousity to take intellectual risks.
Where they develop innovative solutions.
Where they build the confidence to lead in uncertain and complex environments.
In a world that demands thoughtful leadership and creative thinking, that kind of preparation has never been more important.
The Honors College creates an environment where ambition is matched with opportunity, and where students are supported by a community that encourages them to grow and make an impact.
We're excited to celebrate all that has been accomplished and the excellence to come over the next 50 years.
— Dr. Michael Chajes, Dean of the Honors College
50th Anniversary celebration kickoff
On Sept. 19, 2026, the Honors College community came together during the weekend of the University of Delaware’s home football opener against Coastal Carolina to celebrate 50 years of excellence.
Stay tuned for more upcoming events as we celebrate this milestone in Honors education! Below are some ways you can get involved, including making a gift and sharing your Honors memories.
UD HONORS THROUGH THE YEARS
The Honors Program began in 1976 as an ambitious idea: To give exceptional students an early, immersive academic experience.
What started as a small, forward-thinking program quickly evolved into a transformative community where students challenged one another, collaborated deeply and pursued ideas without limits.
In 2020, that vision reached a defining milestone as the program officially became the Honors College, expanding its reach, resources and impact for generations to come. Today the Honors College is ranked #11 in the nation. The future is bright, and our goal is to become better and better.
Over 2,000 Honors students represent every discipline across the University from scientists to engineers, artists, entrepreneurs and changemakers.
They do more than participate. They lead.
- Conduct undergraduate research
- Earn prestigious national fellowships
- Collaborate directly with faculty
- Participate in global experiences
- Build lifelong networks
The Honors experience transforms potential into impact.
For 50 years, the Honors College has opened doors for students ready to lead. Now, the focus turns to what comes next.
Your engagement and support will help us expand access for exceptional students; fund research, travel and global experiences; strengthen mentorship and career readiness programs; ensure Honors remains a destination for top talent; and create innovative educational experiences.
A gift today supports students and the future they will help shape.
Honors College — Student Enrichment
This fund provides financial support for a broad range of academic and career enrichment activities that will complement and enhance the UD educational experience of our students.
Honors College – 50th Anniversary
Your gift to the Honors College 50th Anniversary Fund supports programs, emerging priorities and experiences that strengthen the Honors community while celebrating this milestone anniversary.
Honors College — Donald Harward and Burnaby Munson Fund for Honors Undergraduate Research
Established in May 2017 to provide stipends to Honors students pursuing an Honors Degree with Distinction to remain on campus and focus on senior thesis research during winter session of the senior year.