Ellen Browning Scripps Medal
“The paramount obligation of a college is to develop in its students the ability to think clearlyand independently, and the ability to live confidently, courageously, and hopefully.”
Scripps College Founder, Ellen Browning Scripps
The College has awarded the Ellen Browning Scripps medal, the highest honor Scripps bestows on an individual, only three times in its nearly 100-year history. The EBS medal celebrates the life and vision of its founder, Ellen Browning Scripps, by recognizing a woman whose achievements are in alignment with the mission of the College, demonstrating the moral, ethical, and humanitarian standards exemplified by our founder, enabling all women to live more confidently, courageously, and hopefully.
MEDAL CRITERIA
In selecting the next award recipient, the College considers a balance of background and accomplishments. The recipient must be:
- a dynamic, compelling, passionate person who is a current leader or influencer in her field
- a well-known, public figure, highly respected for her life’s work
- a person of influence and prestige who brings considerable positive attention to Scripps College
PAST EBS MEDAL RECIPIENTS
- 2013: Gabrielle Giffords, former congressmember and alumna of the Scripps College
- 1998: Sandra Day O’Connor, former associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
- 1994: Former United States Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION EBS MEDAL TIMELINE
- Spring 2027: EBS Medal ceremony, held during Reunion Weekend
- Fall 2026: Announce EBS Medal award recipient
- Fall 2025: Invitations are sent to top nominees
- Spring 2025:
- President’s spring community welcome message invites EBS Medal nominations
- Centennial Ambassadors Council reviews submissions and determines top nominees
- Fall 2024: President’s fall community welcome message announces centennial site