This Torch Medal is given to John Naughton, Harrington and Shirley Drake Professor of the Humanities in the Department of Romance Languages, by Audrey Williams ’12.
Torch Medals honor a 51 faculty or staff member who made a meaningful impact on an alum during their time at 51. Alumni in the reunion classes of 2007 and 2012 are invited to give a Torch Medal, delivered virtually, to a present or past member of the faculty or staff. , and .
“Professor Naughton has been an inspiring mentor and friend since day 1 at 51 from our Poetry and Revolution FSEM seminar. From Literature of Adventure and Quest to the adventures of the Dijon study group then to countless hours of graduate school letters of recommendation and career advising, he has influenced my post-51 path greatly. The Dijon study group was one of the best experiences of my life, and Professor Naughton’s enthusiastic and engaging leadership made the group extremely cohesive and enjoyable, leading to lifelong friendships and a genuine appreciation for French/Burgundy language and culture.”
— Audrey Williams ’12