The Gallagher Honors Thesis Contest recognizes the Senior Honors Thesis (REL-R 499) which shows particular academic distinction. All theses submitted to this competition are reviewed by members of the Department’s Undergraduate Studies Committee, which then selects the most exceptional thesis.

The Gallagher Honors Thesis Award is named after Bill Gallagher. The owner of a successful petroleum distribution business in Denver, Colorado, Bill credits the undergraduate and graduate work he did in Religious Studies with preparing him for the world he lives and works in today. Inspired by professors at the University of Colorado, where he graduated cum laude in 1992 with a BA in Religious Studies, and then at the University of Chicago, where he earned an MA in the same field, Bill wants to encourage students to learn more about religion. This desire led him to fund an annual student essay contest at Indiana University’s Department of Religious Studies. It is thanks to Bill’s generous endowment that we can celebrate an outstanding Senior Honors Thesis with a monetary award.

To apply to the Gallagher Honors Thesis Award, please submit your Senior Honors Thesis to religion@iu.edu.

The winning essay receives a monetary prize of $400. 

Deadline for receipt of all materials: March 21st