Susannah Pittmann is this year’s recipient of the Anthropology and Interdisciplinary Programs (AIP) Department’s Ward medal, awarded to the graduating senior demonstrating the greatest proficiency in the field of Anthropology.
She was also awarded the MCA Department’s Irving Rosenthal Award for excellence in Journalism, and the History Department’s Leslie Steigman Baylor award for outstanding work in American History History for her paper “Borders, Bureaucrats, and Bodies: The Role of the Administrative State in Enforcing the Johnson Reed Act of 1924.” Pittman (MMUF, Anthropology, 2025 grad) is Assistant Managing Editor of HarlemView, which is a finalist for the Society of Professional Journalists’ Mark of Excellence for Best Online Digital Publication award. Learn more about Susannah’s background below:
A Journey Rooted in Experience
Susannah’s path to City College is as unique as her academic pursuits. “I am the youngest of three, raised by a single mother in Yonkers, NY,” she shared. Before her time at CCNY, she gained invaluable experience as a Tall Ship Sailor and a history educator. This hands-on experience, combined with her innate curiosity, clearly laid the groundwork for her interdisciplinary academic strengths.
Passion for Understanding the Present Through the Past
When asked about the driving force behind her studies, Susannah’s passion for applied knowledge became clear. “I am passionate about using historical and anthropological inquiry to better understand contemporary politics, and being able to present that information in accessible, approachable mediums,” she explained. This commitment to bridging the gap between complex academic research and public understanding is a hallmark of her work.
The Powell School Advantage
Susannah credits the Colin Powell School with providing the essential foundation for her achievements. “The Powell School has given me the resources that I need to pursue my research goals, a strong community of mentors, and a network of friends that share my value system,” she noted. This holistic support system, encompassing academic resources, mentorship, and a strong peer network, clearly empowered her to excel.
What’s Next?
As she steps into her post-graduation chapter, Susannah has clear aspirations. “I aim to land a job in news or research before pursuing graduate school in the next year or two,” she shared. Given her impressive track record in both rigorous research and accessible journalism, we have no doubt she’ll achieve these goals.
Advice for Fellow Students
For current and future students, Susannah offers invaluable advice that echoes her own intellectual curiosity: “I’d recommend that everyone gets outside of their intellectual comfort zone whenever they can! Take courses from outside of their department, read broadly, listen to thinkers that you disagree with, and keep up with the news.” It’s a powerful reminder that true growth often lies beyond our familiar boundaries.
The Powell School in Three Words
When asked to describe the Colin Powell School in just three words, Susannah thoughtfully chose: “Supportive, innovative, inspiring.” These words perfectly encapsulate the environment that helps students like Susannah reach their fullest potential.
Susannah Pittmann’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, interdisciplinary thinking, and the transformative impact of the Colin Powell School. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and look forward to seeing the incredible contributions she will undoubtedly make!
