Emily Christine Brankman, a member of the class of 2026 at Connecticut College, was awarded the 2026 Oakes and Louise Ames Prize for her honors thesis during the college’s 108th Commencement on May 17.
The prize recognizes outstanding academic achievement by a graduating senior. Brankman, who double majored in dance and history with a minor in Classics and participated as a scholar in the Peace and Conflict Pathway, received the award for her thesis titled “one, and other, one another, another (again): A Historical and Embodied, Kinetic and Theoretical Investigation of Otherization.”
Brankman’s thesis examines how otherization is used as a tool for power through theoretical analysis, historical context, and movement-based research. Over an academic year, she collaborated with nine dancers to create nearly a half-hour performance piece that incorporated theories from philosophers such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau to artists like Martha Graham to activists including Edward Said. Her work argues that countering otherization requires intentional acknowledgment and accountability.
The Oakes and Louise Ames Prize is named after the late president emeritus of Connecticut College and his wife. It is offered by the trustees in recognition of their contributions to fostering academic excellence during their tenure at the college.
In support of Brankman’s nomination for the prize, Dayton Professor of Dance Rosemarie Roberts described her project as “a stunning performance and paper that demonstrates the highest level of artistry, academic rigor and achievement.” David Dorfman, Professor of Dance who advised Brankman’s thesis work said: “Through her precise and expansive interpretation of systematic theories of othering and her translation of those ideas and behaviors into artistry and movement,” Brankman makes it clear that otherization is learned behavior. Dorfman added: “Her thesis calls upon readers and viewers to recognize the consequentiality of their own choices and reminds us that proximity, intimacy and empathy can be a crucial salve if utilized effectively.”
The recognition highlights ongoing efforts within academia to address social issues through interdisciplinary scholarship.
